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THE ABIERICAN 

Comprehending a description of 

THE VARIOUS DISEASES INCIDENT 

TO HORSES, 

AND PRESCRIPTIONS FOR THEIR CURE. 

With a few preliminary Rules necessary to be observed by Purchasers. 



TO WHICH IS ADDED 



Containing- directions for the management of those animals, i;i 
Breeding, Weaning, Castrating, Breaking, Docking, Shoe- 
ing, Mounting, Riding, Travelling, Driving-, Feeding, 
Soiling, Watering, Stabling, Trimming, Dressing, 
Choosing Ostlers, Fattening, Bleeding, Purging, 
Clystering, Blistering, Poulticing, Rowel- 
ling, Preventing infectious and other 
Diseases, Defending from flies, &c. 

:;arefully selected and compiled from the most approved Authors. 



Embellished with six appropriate Copper-plate Engravings. 



BY JOHN SIMMO 




rUILSD'^LPHLl , 
TRINTED FOR, AND SOLD BY THE COMPILER. 

S. W. corner of Third and Tammany Streets. 
1835. 



Eastern District of Pennsylvania , to wit : 



, BE IT UEMEMREIIED, That on the fifteenth tlay o\ 

5sKAL.? September, m the fiflif-lh year of the in<lepeni1ence of the 

y—r^ United Sta>es of Amnica, A. D. 1825, John Simmons, 

of il:t sai() idstrici, h^ih oepofited in this office the title of a book, tlie 

right wliereof he claims ss proprietor, in the words following, lo wit: 

" The American Pocket Farrier ; comprehending a description of 
the vt.rious Diseases incident to Horses, and Prescriptions for 
their Cure. With a few preliminary Rules necessary to be ob- 
served by Purchasers. To which is added an Appendix : Con- 
tairing directions for the management of those animals, in Breed- 
ing, Wesning, Castrating, Breaking, Docking, Shoeing, Mount- 
ing, Riding, Travelling, Driving, Feeding, Soiling, Watering, 
Stitbiing, Trimming, Dressing, Choosing Ostlers, Fattening, 
Bleeding, Purging, Clyslering, Blistering, Poulticing, Rowel- 
ling, Preventing infectious and other Diseases, Defending from 
flies, ke. Carefully selected and compiled from the most ap- 
proved Authors. Embellished with six appropriate Copper-plate 
Engravings. By John Simmons." 

In conformity lo the Act of the Congress of the United States, intitu- 
led. " An act tor the encouragement of lenroing, by secuiing the copies 
of mips, cliarls, and books, to the authors and proprietors of such 
copi-9, during the tira^s therein mentioned;" — And also lo the act, 
eniiileil, " An act supplementary loan act, entitled, ' An act for the 
en<ourrige!netit of learnitig, by securing ihe copies of maps, charts, and 
books, to liie authors and proprietors of such copies, duiing the limes 
therein mentioned,' and extending the benefits thereof to the arts of de- 
nigning, engraving, and etching historical and other prints." 

1). CALDWELL, 
Clerk of thp Eastern District of Peonsylvani'i ■ 









/^^ 



INTRODUCTION. 



Notwithstanding there are numerous excellent 
treatises on Farriery, already extant, it is appre- 
hended that a judicious selection from them, com- 
prised in a small and cheap volume, will be an 
acceptable and useful manual to such as have 
any of those animals in their possession or under 
care. 

And the compiler respectfully solicits an atten- 
tive perusal of the following pages — and where 
any error, deficiency, or redundancy, shall ap- 
pear, a friendly intimation of it will be kindly re- 
ceived, and duly regarded. 

« We are bound to study the diseases of domes- 
tic animals, and the remedies that are proper to 
cure them, by a principle of gratitude. They live 
only for our benefit. They cost us nothing in wa- 
ges or clothing. They require in exchange for 
their labour, and all the other advantages we de- 
rive from them, nothing from us hut food and shel- 
ter , and these of the cheapest and coarsest kind ; 
so that there is constantly due to them, an im- 
mense balance of debt from us. This motive to 
take care of their health and livea will appear 
more striking, when we consider the specific ben- 
efits we receive from each of them. 



IV INTRODUCTION. 

The horse is not only an important appendage^ 
but a necessary part of the cement of civilized 
society. He ploughs our fields — he drags home 
our Ijarvests and fruits to our barns and cellars. 
He conveys them from distant countries, over 
rough and difficult roads, to our market towns 
and sea-ports. He receives in exchange from 
them, the products of foreign nations, and conveys 
them to the interior and remote parts of our coun- 
try. He keeps up the inland connection between 
different states by means of stages and posts ; and 
thus favours the quick communication of intelli- 
gence, and the increase of national intercourse, 
commerce and happiness. He administers to our 
health and our pleasures, under the saddle and in 
the harness. He keeps up society and friendship 
in neighbourhoods too scattered in their popula- 
tion to admit of visits on foot. In vain would 
country churches and courts be opened, without 
lie strength of this noble animal ; nor could the 
system of representative government be supported 
in an agricultural country unless he conveyed the 
elector to the place of suffrage." 

•' Nor let us forget his sagacity in discovering 
roads, and choosing the safest parts of them, when 
inattention or darkness has rendered his rider or 
driver unable to discover them. — In the physiei- 



INTRODUCTION. V 

an's midnight excursion to visit the sick, how of- 
ten has his horse conducted him in safety, (and 
sometimes overcome by sleep) through impercep- 
tible paths, and across deep and rapid currents of 
water, to the door of his patient ; and again, back 
to his own home ! Still further, how often has the 
convivialist, who has sat too long over his evening 
bowl, owed his life or his limbs to the good temper 
«f this faithful animal ; who, in spite of a contrary 
direction of his bridle, has carried him with un- 
broken bones to the arms of his servants, to be 
conveyed by them to his bed ; in order to dose 
away the remains of his intoxication !" 

[Dr. Benjamin Rush.} 



A 2 



INDEX. 



A. PAGE. 

Age ... 10 
Appetite lost . . 18 
Appendix . . 104 

B. 
Bots ... 19 
Broken Wind . . 21 
Bruises . . 22 

Breeding Mare . .18 
Blood Spavin . 83 

Bone Spavin . . ib. 
Breeding . . 104 
Breaking . . . 106 
Bleeding . . 122 
Blistering . . 130 | 

Blister Plasters . ib. 

C. 
Colic or Gripes . 24 

Cold and Catarrh . 26 
Cough . . . 27 
Curb ... 28 
Corns . . .29 
Canker in the Foot 30 
Canker in the Mouth 32 
Cutting . . ib. 

Crib-Biting . . 34 
Chin ... 12 
Carriage Horses . 15 

Cart Horse . . IT 
Castrating . . 105 

Choosing'Ostlers . 119 
Cl^'stering . .128 

D. 
Diarrhoea, or Purging, 34 
Diabetes, or Excessive 

Staling ... 36 
Disorders of the Kid- 
neys and Bladder 37 



Diseases 

Diseases of the Eyes 

Disposition . 

Docking . 

Driving 

Dressing . 

Defending from flies 

E. 
Excessive Purging 
Eyes . 

F. 
Fevers . 
Farcy 
Fistula . 
Founder . 
Feeding 
Fattening 

G. 
Glanders 
Gravel 
Grease, or Scratches 

H. 
Hide-Bound 
Hoof-Bound . 
Hint to Purshasers 
Health . 
Habits 



Inflammation of the 

Eyes . 62 

" Stomach . 63 

" Bowels . 64 

" Lungs . 65 

" Liver . 67 

" Kidneys . 68 

" Bladder . 69 



PAGE. 
18 

39 

13 

. 107 

113 

. 118 

134 

. 42 
12 

43 
. 45 

50 

. 52 

114 

. 120 

54 

. 57 
58 



I. PAGE. 1 


S. 


Introduction . 


3 


Simple Fever . . 


Incisions . 


99 


Symptomatic Fever 
Spavins . 


J. 




Splents 


Jaundice, or Yellows 


70 


Saddle-Galls, or Wa. 
bles . 


L. 




Sitfast 


Lam pass 


71 


Staggers 


Lameness . 


72 


Strains 


Lock-Jaw 


ib. 


Strangles 


Lacerations 


101 


Stranguary 
Surfeit . 


M. 




String-Halt 


Mange . 


73 


Sallenders 


Moon-Eyes 


75 


Sand-crack 


Mallenders . 


76 


Sore Mouth . 


Molten Grease . 


77 


Saddle-Horse . 


Mouth . 


12 


Stallion 


Movements 


13 


Shoeing 


Mounting . 


109 


Soiling . 
Stabling . 


P. 




Summary 


PoU-Evil 


79 




Punctures . 


102 


T. 


Purging 
Poulticing . 


124 




131 


Thorough-Pin . 
Thrush . 


Preventing Infectious 




Diseases 


133 


Teeth 


Purgative Balls . 


126 


Travelling 
Trimming 


Q. 






Quittor . 


81 


W. 


R. 

Ringbone 


82 


Wind-galls . 
Wounds 


Riding 
Rowelling 


109 
131 


Weaning 
Watering . 



Yll 



THE 



AMEEICAN POCKET FARRIER. 



A HINT TO PURCHASERS. 

Although a principle of candour and integrity 
may, sometimes, be discovered among dealers of 
the present day ; yet the ancient adage, " Hon- 
esty is the best policy," appears to be too gen- 
erally reversed ; especially by those speculators 
denominated ^^ Jockeys;" and as men who 
conscientiously adhere to the golden precept, 
" Whatsoever ye would that men should do to 
you, do ye even so to them," are naturally cred- 
ulous, and consequently liable to imposition by 
sharpers ; it will be necessary for them to observe 
the following rules, when tliey are disposed to 
purchase a horse. 

RULES. 

Supposing the size, form and colour to be 
agreeable, the first inquiry should be respecting 
his age ; which, however, may be nearly ascer- 
tained by the teethf mouthy chin, and eyes. 



\ 



10 

Teeth. — Every horse has six teeth in each 
jaw, until he is two years and a half old ; which 
are all white, and have smooth surfaces. 

When he is nearly three years of age, the two 
middle teeth, in each jaw, will be displaced, or 
forced out, by young ones ; with concave sur- 
faces, and black spots near the centre. 

When about three years and a half old, he 
will shed four other teeth, one on each side of the 
young ones, and, at about four years of age, they 
will be succeeded by others; which, also, will be 
concave, and have black spots in the centre. 

At four years old he will lose the four corner 
teeth ; which in a few months, will be followed 
by four concave ones ; v/ith black spots, as be- 
fore, and grooves on the insides. 

When between four and five years of age, the 
tusks make their appearance, about an inch from 
the corner teeth ; and when about six years old, 
they will be fully grown, pointed, and grooved 
inside also. 

After the horse is five years of age, th« 
grooves and concavities of some of his teeth 
will begin to fill up; and, at seven, those in the 
lower jaW; except the corner ones, will be near* 



11 

iy even ; leaving small brown spots where they 
were black at first. 

When he is nearly nine years old, the points 
of the tusks will be worn off, the grooves filled 
up, or become convex ; and the edges of the 
middle teeth will begin to disappear. But the 
marks in the upper teeth of many horses remain 
visible until the twelfth year, and sometimes 
longer,* 

Notwithstanding it is universally acknow- 
ledged, that no infallible rule can be proposed 
for ascertaming the age of a horse, with preci- 
sion, after ne has completed his ninth year, yet 
the followwig observations may assist the pur- 
chaser in Astinguishing youth from old age. 

After nine years of age a horse, generally, 
has lost tlfe marks of his teeth ; but some retain 
them till they are fourteen or fifteen ; with other 
signs of freshness and vigour. 

But when he grows old it may be discovered 
by the gums having left the teeth long, slender, 
and projecting forward ; and the roots will be 
of a brown or yellow colour. 

* Some dealers in horses drill or burn holes in the teeth of an 
old horse, for the purpose of passing' him off for a younij- one ; 
but, by a careful examination, the fraud may be discrtvered. 



12 

Mouth, — Tlie bars of a young horse's mouth 
are always flesliy, plump ami dry ; but those of 
an old one are lean, smooth, and covered with 
saliva. 

Chin. — The chin of a young horse is round 
and full; and the pores close and small; but 
that of a horse advanced in years, is flat, wrin- 
kled and flabby ; and the pores open and broad. 

Eyes. — The eyes of a young horse are plump, 
full, and lively ; the lids have but few wrinkles ; 
the hollows above the balls are small ; and no 
grey hairs will be found on the brmvs, except 
those on the body are of a similar cftour. 

The eyes of an old horse appear lleepy, dim 
and sunk ; the lids are loose and llirivelled ; 
with large hollows, and grey brows*; and the 
whole countenance appears sad and dejected ; 
unless artificial means are used to give him spi- 
rit. See diseases of the eyes. 

The next subjects of inquiry, or examination, 
should be respecthig his health, movements, 
habits, and disposition. 

Health. — Some of the diseases & defects inci- 
dent to a horse, and which frequently render him 



18 

of little value, are, broken wind, heaves, found- 
er, gravel, defective eyes, splents, spavins, 
ringbones, windgalls, scratches, thrush, sand- 
cracks, &c. A description of which may be 
found in the following pages, under their re- 
spective heads. 

Movements, — Admitting the horse to be en- 
tirely free from all of the above diseases and 
defects; and, while standing, may appear with- 
out blemish ; yet many of his movements may 
be very objectionable ; which cannot be satisfac- 
torily ascertained without giving him a fair trial, 
over hill and dale. See Summary. 

Habits. — Habitual stumbling, starting, kick- 
ing, biting, rearing, jumping, and running, are 
the most disagreeable and dangerous qualities 
a horse can possess ; and if, after a patient and 
impartial trial, he should be found guilty of one 
or more of them, I apprehend a prudent pur- 
chaser will have but little need of advice. 

Disposition, — Some horses, in their natural 
dispositions, are slothful, stubborn or refrac- 
tory — others are lively, cheerful and active; yet 
gentle and obedient — others, again, are fiery, 
B 



14 

fretful, furious, and ungovernable. But, by a 
little exercise, with proper management, those 
tempers which are most predominant will be 
easily discovered ; and the difficulty of making 
a choice will immediately vanish.* 

SADDLE HORSE. 

An elegant and first rate saddle horse should 
be reasonably large — his body nearly round — 
head small, thin, bony, and tapering — counte- 
nance lively and cheerful — ears quick of motion, 
narrow, thin, erect, and pointing towards each 
other — eyes large, dark, round, and full — nos- 
trils large and expanding — brow and forehead 
smooth, and somewhat rounding — and his nose 
a little inclined to the Roman form. His neck 
should be long, thin and arched — mane half the 
width of his neck, thin and smooth — shoulders 
high, tapering, and well thrown back — breast 
full, and of moderate width— fore legs straight, 
flat, sinewy, and thin — arms large and muscular; 
back short, and nearly straight — flanks plump 

* The preceding directions and observations are not designed 
to inculcate an opinion that every man, who has a horse for sale, 
is a knave; for it is believed there are individuals who, by their 
candour, would render many of those critical exammations unne. 
cessary. 



15 

and fuU ; the last rib near the hip bone — hips 
and buttocks full, round, and well covered — 
chine broad, and his tail well placed, properly 
shaped and carried. His thighs should be long ; 
and, from the hip to the haunch bone, large, and 
bulging with muscles — hocks broad, sinewy, 
bony, and clear of pufts — hind legs, from the 
hocks, a little bending, flat, and sinewy — pas- 
terns a moderate length, small and bony — and 
his hoofs a proportionable size, round and smooth. 
When mounted, his appearance should be bold 
and majestic — movements light, and actions 
graceful; without any turning in or out at the 
knees or ancles. The colour should suit the 
fancy of the purchaser ; but, for actual service, 
experience has proved that dark colours, with- 
out any white feet, are generally the best. 

CARRIAGE HORSES. 

Horses intended for a carriage should be from 
fifteen to sixteen hands high. Great attention 
should be paid to their forms, habits, and dis- 
positions. Their bodies should be large and 
well muscled — breasts full and wide— eyes large 
and good — legs large, sinewy and bony — pas- 
terns short : and feet a moderate size— tails 



16 

good, and well carried — and their whole ap. 
pearance and movements gay and lively. They 
should be free from the habits of stumbling, start- 
ing, running, either forward or backward, rear- 
ing, and kicking; and their dispositions peace- 
able, patient, and obedient. In matching horses, 
a similarity of size, gaits, spirit, and temper, is 
of much greater importance than that of colour. 
Nevertheless, uniformity of colour would con- 
siderably enhance their beauty. 

Horses that have once been frightened in 
harness will never forget it, during the remain- 
der of their lives; and are, therefore, unsafe 
for carriage horses, as long as they live, after 
the alarm has occurred. And for the purpose 
of ascertaining whether such an occurrence has 
ever taken place or not, let them be hitched to 
a carriage ; and, while they are standing, fre- 
quently open and shut the carriage door, and 
rattle the steps — then go before them, and atten- 
tively observe their motions — for, if they have 
ever been frightened in harness, they will be 
very restless ; hold their heads high ; move their 
ears with great activity ; and expose the white 
parts of their eyes. Such horses, and those of 
a fiery and fretful temper, should be avoided. 
But if they manifest no fear or impatience, let 



jBMys£l\ 




17 

them be driven, slowly, a short distance ; with- 
out cracking or flourishing the whip ; and, af- 
terward, they may be hastened, at pleasure, by 
kind expressions ; to which all horses siiould 
be accustomed. And, by driving them a few 
miles, over rough and hilly roads, if they have 
any dangerous tricks, or vicious and trouble- 
some habits, they will be easily discovered. 

CART HORSE. 

In choosing a common draught horse, especial 
regard should be had to his size, form, age, 
health, strength, courage, and habits — avoiding 
such as may be defective, or objectionable, in 
any of those respects. 

STALLION. 

A horse that is kept for covering, should be 
of a good size, form, and colour — free from nat- 
ural blemishes and defects — offensive and dan- 
gerous habits — and every kind of distemper and 
disease. His carriage should be lofty and spi- 
rited — and all his movements regular and agree- 
able. For it may reasonably be expected, that 
^vhatever qualities the sire possesses, his colts 
will inherit. 

B2 



18 
BREEDING MARE. 

A mare designed for breeding should be large, 
strong, and well formed — healthy and vigour- 
ous in constitution — bold, active, kind, and 
obedient in disposition. 

She should not be suffered to breed until four 
or five years of age. See Breeding, 



DISEASES. 

APPETITE LOST, 

Cawses.-Excessive fatigue — too long feeding 
on one kind of food — dirty fodder, or mouldy 
corn — and, frequently, the approach of some 
other disease. 

REMEDIES. 

1. Take near half a gallon of blood from the 
neck vein {see Bleeding) — and drench* with a 
mixture of assafoetida, one quarter of an ounce 
— salt, one table spooful — and sassafras tea, one 

* A large horn, of a proper form, with the small end made very 
smooth, is much better than a bottle for the purpose of drenching 
—and every owner of a horse should keep one ready for use. 



19 

pint. Next day, give a drencli ; consisting of 
Glauber's salts, one pound — dissolved in one 
quart of warm water. See Purging. 

2. Give the horse half an ounce of nitre in a 
mash of bran, once or twice. This, with a lit- 
tle rest, will generally restore his appetite. 

BOTS. 

Description. — Bots are small worms, about 
three fourths of an inch in length, of a 
brown or reddish colour ; and furnished with 
two sharp hooks, by which they attach them- 
selves to the insensible coat of a horse's stom- 
ach ; and, while in that situation, do but little 
injury — but when they insinuate themselves be- 
tween the two coats, they become very trouble- 
some and dangerous ; and, frequently, prove 
fatal to the horse. 

Cause. — Bots are produced from eggs depos- 
ited, in Autumn, on the hair of the legs and 
under jaw ; by an insect somewhat resembling 
a common bee, both in size and colour. The 
eggs are supposed to be introduced into the 
horse's mouth by his biting those parts on which 
they are settled ; and thence conveyed to the 
stomach with his food. 



20 

Preuewfiow.-Scrape off the eggs with a knife, 
or some other sharp instrument, every week, 
or oftener, during their season — taking care to 
do it where the horse will not eat soon after. 

Syinptoms. — When a horse is much annoyed 
by bots, he will frequently lie down — look 
round to his shoulders — groan — switch his tail 
between his hind legs — turn up his upper lip — 
and have a very hot fever ; which may be dis- 
covered by feeling his ears. 

REMEDIES. 

1. Make a tea of wormwood and tansy ; and 
drench with about one quart. If the first dose 
is ineffectual, repeat it. 

2. Give the horse a table spoonful of unslak- 
ed lime, with his food or water, morning and 
evening, during three or four days. 

3. Take copperas, two table spoonfuls — wa- 
ter, milk-warm, one pint — dissolve the copper- 
as ; and drench with the mixture. If the horse 
be not relieved in fifteen minutes, repeat the 
dose. Then give him a purge ; composed of 
soft soap and molasses, each, one pint ; with a 
handful of salt. If the dose should not operate 
in four or five hours, it must be repeated. 



21 

4. Apply spirits of turpentine to the outside 
of the breast and stomach, and the bots will im- 
mediately let go their hold ; and will soon be 
expelled. 

BROKEN WIND. 

Causes. — Broken wind is supposed to be fre- 
quently produced by excessive fatigue — heavy 
drafts — sudden changes from heat to cold — vio- 
lent exercise, when the stomach is distended 
with food or water — and fulness of habit. 

Symptoms. -Wh&n ahorse is broken- winded, 
he draws up his flanks slowly, and drops them 
suddenly — breathes with great difficulty ; atten- 
ded with a disagreeable, wheezing noise ; and, 
frequently, with a cough. 

MITIGATIONS. 

Although this disease is generally allowed 
to be incurable ; yet, by care and attention, it 
may be greatly alleviated. — The food should 
be compact and nutritious ; such as corn and 
old hay. It is said that molasses, in very small 
quantities, has been given in water, with great 
success. Some have used tar w^ater, and others, 
limewater. But the greatest dependance should 



22 

be ill giving sparing supplies of substantial food, 
with regular and very moderate exercise. If 
the cough should prove troublesome, take away 
two or three quarts of blood, every other day, 
a few times. 

BRUISES. 

Descrijotion. — Bruises are external injuries ; 
occasioned by accident, or by some cruel treats 
ment. 

REMEDIES. 

i. Horse ointment. — Into a clean pipkin, that 
holds about a quart, put yellow rosin, the size 
of a hen's egg — when melted over a slow fire, 
add the same quantity of bees-wax — when that 
is melted, put in hog's lard, half a pound — 
that being dissolved, add two ounces of honey ; 
when that is dissolved, put in common turpen- 
tine-, half a pound — keep it gently boiling ; and 
stir it with a stick all the time — when the tur- 
pentine is dissolved, add two ounces of verdi- 
gris ; taking the pipkin from the fire immediate- 
ly, to prevent the mixture from running over — 
set it on again; stir it a little; and strain it through 
a coarse sieve into a clean vessel, for use. 



28 

2. Take of vinegar, one quart — laudanum, 
half an ounce — sugar of lead, one fourth of an 
ounce — mix them well together , and apply it 
to the affected part, three or four times a day. 
If the place will admit of it, bind on a flannel, 
doubled, and wet with the mixture; which will 
keep the wound continually moist. 

3. If the swelling should not abate, apply a 
poultice made of a strong decoction of red oak 
bark and meal, once a day ; until it subsides. 

4. But when swellings cannot be dispersed 
by the above means, and, by pressing with the 
finger, it is discovered that matter is formed; the 
best way is to open the skin, and allow the 
bruise to discharge its contents — after which it 
will generally heal, in a very short time, by 
keeping it entirely clean, with soap-suds alone. 
But if, after the matter is discharged, the place 
should appear rotten, and of a dark colour, in- 
licating mortification ; with considerable inflam- 
nation — bleed plentifully — feed on bran, oats, 
)r light food of any kind — and repeat the red 
>ak poultice — which will soon remove the in- 
lammation, cleanse the wound, and change its 
ippearauce. After which, any of the simples; 



24 



recommended for healing wounds, maybe used. 

See Wounds. 

COLICK OR GRIPES. 

Causes. — Improper feeding, watering, or ri- 
ding — sometimes, a want of energy in the stom. 
ach or bowels ; which occasions a spasmodic 
constriction of the intestines, and a confinement 
of air — and, sometimes, the colick is produced 
by costiveness. 

Symptojns, — The colick commences witl] 
restlessness, and uneasiness in the horse's mam 
ner of standing — frequently pawing — he voidi 
but small quantities of excrement — makes manj' 
fruitless attempts to stale — kicks his belly witlj 
his hind legs — often looks round to his flanki 
— expresses his pain by groans — lies down 
rolls, and gets up again — his ears are generally 
cold; while he frequently sweats about tht 
flanks and shoulders — his body swells — and b^ 
often manifests a disposition to lie down in haste 

REMEDIES. 

1. Take from the neck vein half a gallon o 
blood. Then take of laudanum, one ounce— 



25 

mint tea, milk warm, one quart — mix them 
well in a bottle ; and drench with the mixture. 
Let the horse be well rubbed under the belly — 
and give him an injection ; consisting of meal, 
water, molasses, salt, and hog's lard, milk 
warm. See Clystering. 

2. Take of mint tea, one pint and a half — 
gin, or any other spirituous liquor, half a pint — 
mix them well in a bottle ; and give it as a 
drench — taking care to give him a good rubbing. 
If this should not have the desired effect, in fif- 
teen minutes, repeat the dose. 

3. Take of camphire, a quarter of an ounce — 
oil of turpentine, half an ounce — mint tea, one 
pint — mixed in a bottle ; and drench with them. 
Confine the horse in a close stable — cover him 
with three or four blankets — -and place two 
large tubs of boiling water under his belly ; 
which will throw him into a profuse sweat ; and 
relieve him from pain. 

In addition to the above ; clysters, consisting 
of the following ingredients, should be injected 
every half hour ; until his bowels are opened — 
water, half a gallon — salt one handful — oil, of 
any kind, and molasses, of each, one pint — » 
mixed well together. 

C 



26 
COLD AND CATARRH. 

Causes. Want of good rubbing, after violent 
exercise — being changed from a warm and com- 
fortable stable to a cold and open one — stand- 
ing out, late at nigbt, in the dew — plunging 
deep into cold water, while heated^ and in a 
profuse perspiration. 

Symptoms, A watery discharge from the 
eyes and nostrils — and a cough. 

IIEMEDIES. 

1. On the first attack of this disease, bleeding 
will frequently be found an eft'ectual remedy — 
but, if neglected till a considerable discharge at 
the nostrils has taken place, it seldom proves 
beneficial. 

2. The following laxative will be found use- 
ful ; and may be repeated, after a few days, if 
it should appear necessary. It will generally 
prevent those obstinate, and sometimes incura- 
ble coughs, which often remain after a cold; 
and which frequently terminate in broken wind. 

Take Barbadoes aloes, three or four drams 
— emetic tartar, one dram and a half — castile. 



27 



soap, two drams — anil syrup enough to form a 
ball,* for one dose. 

3. The following dose of fever-powder should 
be given every morning and evening, until the 
symptoms abate ; or a considerable diuretic 
effect is produced ; and then, only every second 
or third day, as long as may appear necessary 
or proper. 

Fever jJowder. Mix powdered nitre, one 
ounce, with campliire and tartarized antimony, 
of each, two drams, for one dose. 

COUGH. 

Causes. A cough is frequently occasioned by 
a cold ; and sometimes by worms in the stomach 
and bowels. And when it has been of long 
continuance, and becomes settled, It often proves 
incurable. 

IIEMEDIES. 

1. Take two or three quarts of blood from 
the neck — then give one of the following balls, 
every morning, till purging is produced — 
which, with a proper attention to exercise and 

♦ A ball should be dipped in sweet oil, or melted butter, before 
given. 



28 

diet^ has sometimes effected a cure. The sta- 
bie should be properly ventilated, and kept 
clean. 

Take socotorine aloes, from one to two drams 
— castilc soap, two drams — and tartarized anti- 
mony, two drams — with syrup enough to form 
a ball, for one dose. 

If the disease should not submit to this, make 
use of the following — Gum ammoniac, three 
drams — powdered squills and opium, of each, 
one dram — camphire, two drams — with syrup 
enough to form a ball, for one dose. 

2. Put three or four quarts of tar into a wide 
vessel, open at one end, capable of containing 
eight or ten gallons — keep a sufficent quantity 
of soft water on the tar for use — and let the 
horse drink plentifully of it without any other 
kind of drink. 

CURB. 

Description. The curb is a swelling on the 
back part of the hock, which sometimes occa- 
sions lameness. 

REMKDY. 

Blistering, with rest, is said to be the only 
remedy for this disease ; and it is frequently 



29 

necessary to apply two or three blisters, before 
the swelling will be entirely reduced. See 
Blistering. 

CORNS. 

Description. Hard and painful excrescences 
growing on the bottom of the foot. 

Causes. Unskilful shoeing, or some other 
improper management. 

REMEDIES. 

1. Remove the corn with a drawing knife ; 
and place the shoe so that the tender part may 
not receive any pressure. 

2. If the above remedy has been neglected, 
matter will sometimes be formed in the affected 
part, and break out at the coronet, or upper 
edge of the hoof. It will then be necessary to 
make an opening for it, in the angle between 
the bar and crust — dress the sore with com- 
pound tincture of benzoin — and loosely fill the 
cavity with the following digestive ointment — 
kept in by a bar- shoe. 

Olive oil, one pint — yellow wax and black 
rosin, of each, four ounces — Burgundy pitch 
and turpentine, of each, two ounces — melt the 

C2 



30 

wax, rosin and pitch in the oil, over a slow fire | 
and, when taken off, stir in the turpentine. For 
large wounds, where a plentiful discharge is 
required, stir into the above mixture three 
ounces of spirits of turpentine, that they may 
incorporate while getting cool. 

CANKER IN THE FOOT. 

Description. This dangerous disease fre- 
quently originates with a thrush ; and generally 
attacks the hind feet. It very often proves dif- 
ficult to cure, and sometimes incurable. The 
frog is the first part attacked ; which becomes 
soft and rotten ; discharging matter of a very 
offensive smell. The horny frog is at length 
totally destroyed ; and the sensible frog, instead 
of secreting horn, forms a substance somewhat 
resembling shreds of leather. The disease soon 
extends to the sole and other parts of the foot — 
even to the coffin bone — and is then considered 
incurable. 

REMEDY. 

The first thing to be done is to cut away all 
the diseased p»r s and v hen the bleeding is 
slopped, apply the following strong liniment ; 



31 

and renew it every morning — to be kept on by 
a bar-shoe. Pressure on the diseased part will 
materially assist in effecting a cure, if a cure be 
possible. Whenever the foot is dressed, such 
diseased parts as may again appear, must be 
carefully removed — and to such parts as are 
not sufficiently affected by the liniment, apply 
a little sulphuric or nitrous acid. When those 
places which were diseased begin to look red 
and healthy ; and the discharge loses the smell 
before noticed — becoming whiter, and of a thick- 
er consistence, there is a great probability of a 
cure being effected — and when these favourable 
symptoms take place, an application of the fol- 
lowing mild liniment will be proper ; except 
to such parts as have not lost their foul appear- 
ance. 

Strong Umment, Mix, very cautiously, oil 
of turpentine, one ounce — sulphuric acid, half 
an ounce — to which add tar, four ounces. 

Mild liniment, Crystalized verdigris, pow- 
dered, one ounce — honey, two ounces— pow- 
dered bole and alum, of each, half an ounce— 
and vinegar enougli to give it the consistence 
of a liniment—mixed over a gentle fire. 



82 

CANKER IN THE MOUTH. 

Cause, This troublesome complaint 2;ener- 
ally proceeds from an excoriation or wound in 
the mouth, when it becomes foul, and contains 
a corroding slough ; which must be brought 
away, or destroyed, before a cicatrice can be 
formed so as to effect a cure. 

REMEDY. 

Take borax and burnt alum, of each, half an 
ounce — reduce them to a very fine powder, and 
dissolve them in one gill of boiling water — when 
cold, add styptic tincture, one ounce — and let 
the affected part be touched with some of the 
solution, every day, till the slough comes away 
— the cure may then be completed by applying, 
occasionally, the tincture of myrrh and vinegar, 
equal parts. 

CUTTING. 

Definition, A horse is said to cut, when, in 
travelling, he wounds the inside of the fetlock 
joint, or knee, with the other foot. 

Causes. The most common cause is an im- 
proper position of the foot; the toe inclining 



either inward or outward. Cutting is, als(>^ 
frequently occasioned by weakness or fatigue ; 
and is very liable to happen to young horses, 
when travelling over deep and heavy grouud. 

REMEDIES. 

1. When the toe inclines inward, and the horse 
is too much hurried, he is liable to cut inside of 
the knee, at the lower part of the joint; and 
may, therefore, be considered a dangerous sad- 
dle horse ; for the pain which the stroke occa- 
sions, sometimes causes him to fall suddenly. 
One remedy is to keep the toe as short as pos- 
sible ; and to alter the improper position of the 
foot, by proper shoeing. See Shoeivg. 

2. When the toe inclines outward, the inner 
quarter of the hoof is generally lower than the 
other — to remedy which, the outer quarter must 
be lowered ; and l!ie inner one raised, by hav- 
ing the shoe thicker on that side. 

3. In the last case, the best remedy is to 
avoid the cause, until the legs acquire more 
strength. 

When a horse cuts, endeavour to ascertain 
what part inflicts the wound, by applying tar 
to the wounded place ; for the tar will adhere 



34 

to the hoof, or shoe, that comes in contact with 
it; and the cause may be easily removed by 
the farrier. 

CRIB-BITING. 

Crib-biting, as it is called, is a pernicious 
habit of gnawing, a manger, post, tree, and al- 
most any thing else, within a horse's reach— 
and though not a disease itself; is yet, the 
cause of diseases — for, by sucking in too much 
air, and wasting his saliva, the stomach is ren- 
dered unable to perform its functions; and colick, 
and other distressing disorders, generally ensue. 

KEMKDY. 

The most effectual method of subduing the 
disagreeable habit of Crib-biting, is that of 
covering the edge of the manger, and every part 
that the horse can lay hold of, with sheepskin ; 
the wool outward. 

DIARRHOEA; PURGING, OR SCOURING. 

Causes. Taking cold-«-hard riding — over- 
feeding — eating unwholesome food, &c. — Some- 
times it is occasioned by a suppression of per- 
spiration — or by an increased secretion of bile. 



85 

REMEDIES. 

It requires considerable judgment to discover 
when to suppress a purging, and when to pro- 
mote it. If the disease should be produced by 
any of the four first-mentioned causes, attended 
with a slight fever, it should be encouraged, by 
an opening diet and plenty of warm gruel — but 
if it continue long, without gripings ; the mucus 
of the bowels coming away ; and the horse lose 
his flesh — if he void great quantities of slime 
and greasy matter — give him the following 
drench — and repeat it, every other day, three 
times. 

1. Linitive electuary and cream of tartar, of 
each, four ounces — ^yellow rosin, finely powder- 
ed, one ounce — sweet oil, four ounces — mixed 
with a pint of water gruel. 

The following alterative ball, alone, has been 
found successful ; when given twice a week, 
with scalded bran and water gruel. 

S. Socotorine aloes, half an ounce — diapente, 
one ounce— made into a ball with the juice of 
Spanish liquorice, dissolved in water, and a 
ispoonful of oil of amber. 

To this may be added two drams of myrrh. 



36 

one dram of saifron, and half an ounce of rbu 
barb. 

3. Take opium, one dram— antimony, three 
drams — powdered ginger, two drams — and 
syrup, of any kind, sufficient to make a ball — 
to be repeated, if necessary. 

The horse should be well covered — his drink 
temperately warm — and moderate excercise 
should not be neglected. 

DIABETES, OR EXCESSfVE STALING. I 

Causes. Old disorders — surfeits — excessive 
hard travelling, &c. 

A horse of a weak constitution is very diffi- 
cult to cure ; but if the following remedies are 
applied when the disease first appears ; and he 
be otherwise in tolerable health, the cure, by 
proper attention, will be almost certain. 

REMEDIES. 

1. Take of opium, one dram — assafoetida, , 
two drams — powdered ginger, two drams — red I 
oak bark, powdered, one ounce — and syrup, ofl 
any kind, sufficient to make two balls, for one 
dose — which must be repeated three times with- 
in a week. The horse should not be allowed 



37 

to drink a great deal of water ; and a little salt 
may be put into the quantity given liim. 

2. Take of red wine, one pint — water, one 
pint — gum arabie, one ounce — mix, and give 
them as a drench, three times a week. 

3. Take salts of hartshorn, three drams — 
opium, one dram — powdered ginger, two drams 
— liquorice, half an ounce — and syrup, of any 
kind, sufficient to make the whole into two 
balls — to be given at two different times within 
a week. Nourisshingfood, moderate exeercise, 
and a clean stable, will be necessary. 

DISORDERS OF THE KIDNEYS AND 
BLADDER. 

Symptoms. A weakness in the back and 
loins — difficulty of staling — faintness — loss of 
appetite — dead appearance of the eyes — the 
urine thick, foul, and sometimes bloody; espe- 
cially after a violent strain. 

REMEDIES. 

1. Plentiful bleeding is said to be the best 
remedy, in order to prevent inflammation ; and 
especially' if a fever attend a difficulty of sta- 
ling ; for then there is reason to suppose the 
kidneys to be already inflamed. 
D 



38 

a. A rowel in the belly has sometimes been 
found useful — and the following ball may be 
given twice or thrice a day, with a pint of marsh- 
mallow decoction ; in which half an ounce of 
gum arable is dissolved, with an ounce of honey. 

Take Locatellus balsam, one ounce — sper- 
maceti, six drams — sal prunella, half an ounce 
— mixed into a ball with honey — and, if the 
urine be bloody, add half an ounce of Japan 
earth. , 

3. Should the fever continue, repeat the bleed- H 
ing ; and administer emollient clysters, and a 
cool, opening drink. 

If notwithstanding these means, the urine pass 
Avith difficulty and pain ; give the following ball ; 
and repeat it, two or three times a day, till the 
horse stales with more freedom, and without 
pain ; and his urine becomes of a proper con- 
sistence. 

Take balsam capivi, or Strasburg turpen- 
tine, and Venice soap, of each, one ounce — 
nitre, six drams — powdered myrrh, two drams 
— make them into a ball with honey; and wash 
it down with the marshmallow decoction. See 
Stranguary. 



39 

DISEASES OF THE EYES. 

Causes. External injuries — colds and fevers 
— lijgh feeding, without sufficient exercise — too 
violent exercise — a dark stable, not properly 
ventilated — foul litter, &c. 

REMEDIES. 

1. If an external wound should be inconsid- 
erable ; and attended with only a slight inflam- 
mation, swelling of the eyelid, or a discharge of 
water from the eye — a mixture of cold spring 
water and vinegar, or molasses, frequently and 
gently applied, with a soft sponge, will gener- 
ally effect a cure. 

2. But, in more violent cases, and when there 
is much swelling, it will be necessary to bleed 
moderately ; and give a laxative ball, made of 
socotorine aloes, four drams — and castile soap, 
half an ounce. And apply a poultice of the pulp 
of roasted or boiled apples, cleared from their 
seeds and husks — or, of conserve of roses and 
vinegar, with a little bole, and the white of an 
egg. When the swelling is abated, either of 
the following washes may be used. 

White vitriol, half an ounce — sugar of lead, 
two drams— dissolved in a pint of spring water. 



40 

To these may be added, when the inflammation 
is removed, and the saliva is abundant, half an 
ounce of tutty, or compound powder of cerus. 

Let the eye and eyelid be gently bathed 
with a clean, soft sponge, dipped in the above 
lotion, three or four times a day — or it may be 
applied with a feather, so as to leave a few 
drops of the liquid on the eye. 

Or ; Take of rose buds, two drams — infuse 
them in half a pint of boiliug water — when cold, 
pour oif the infusion — add twenty grains of 
sugar of lead — and apply it as the other. 

If the horse be fleshy, and of a gross consti- 
tution, bleeding may be repeated. His diet 
should be scalded bran or barley — and bis. 
drink cooling and laxative. 

When the veins under the eyes are turgid, 
opening them with a lancet is frequently useful. 
See Inflammation of the Eyes. 

There are other diseases to which the eyes of 
a horse are continually subject: and which fre- 
quently occasion defective vision ; and somcr 
times terminate in total blindness. 

Symptoms. When there is any suspicion 
that a horse's eyes are imperfect, some of the 



41 

following modes of examination will seldom 
fail to discover the fact. 

1st. Confine him in a dark stable about fifteen 
minutes— then lead him hastily into a strong 
light— if he wink fast — wrinkle his brows- 
throw up his head, as if desirous of receiving 
more light— and move his ears, backward and 
forward slowly, his eyes are not good. 

2d. If the ball of the eye appear covered 
with a film, or the corners with the remains of 
one — if the pupil be large, and light coloured ; 
without occasionally contracting — his eyes are 
diseased. 

3d. If be can be driven against a tree, or any 
other object, which he should avoid ; and at 
which he should be alarmed — his eyes are im- 
perfect. 

4:th. If, when travelling over rough ground, 
he blunder frequently — and require the con- 
stant attention of his rider, to manage him — his 
eyes are defective. 

5th. When going, if he lift his feet high and 

awkwardly; and appear not to know where to 

place them— there is sufficient reason to suspect 

he is blind. 

D 2 



42 

REMEDY. 

To remove a film— mix roche alum and white 
vitriol, of each, one scruple, finely powdered, 
with a gill of spring water— and, with a feather, 
put one or two drops into the eye, morning and 
evening. 

EXCESSIVE PURGING. 

Causes. Too much purgative medicine — or ] 
an improper treatment, during the operation , 

of it. " 

UEMEDIES. 

1. Drench with an ounce of Venice treacle, , 
in a pint of warm water — and repeat the dose, 
if necessary— keep the horse warmly clothed, 
and in a state of rest. 

2. Mix eight ounces of the preparation of ar- 
rowroot with a little cold water — add this mix- 
ture to a gallon of boiling water — the whole well 
stirred— and, after boiling two minutes, remove 
it from the fire. About a quart should be given 
every hour, until the purging abates. 

A horse should never be suffered to drink 
cold water, during the operation of medicine — 
nor be exposed to wet or cold. See Injlamma- 
fion of the Boivels. 



46 

FEVERS. 

There are two kinds of fevers, to which the 
horse is subject— one, denominated simple^ and 
the other, symptomatic fever. 

SIMPLE FEVER. 

Cause. A collapsion of the vessels of per- 
spiration ; which compels the blood to accumu- 
late in the interior parts of the body ; and occa- 
sions a derangement in the whole system. 

Symptoms. Shivering; succeeded by loss of 
appetite — dejected countenance — quick pulse — 
hot mouth — debility — costiveness — difficulty of 
staling — and, sometimes, shortness of breath ; 
and pain in the bowels. 

REMEDIES. 

1. As soon as a horse is attacked with this 
disease, he should be bled freely ; according to 
his strength and condition — and, if costiveness 
be one of the symptoms, give him a pint of cas- 
tor oil, or oil of olives — and inject a clyster of 
warm water-gruel, about two quarts. 

After the oil operates, one of the following 
fever powders should be given once in twelve 



44 



hours — and continued until its diuretic eifecfc 
becomes considerable. 

S. Powdered nitre, one ounce — camphire and 
tartarized antimony, of each, two drams — all 
mixed, for one dose. 

Or — Powdered nitre, one ounce — and un- 
washed calx of antimony, two drams — mixed, , 
for one dose. 

Or — Antimonial powder, three drams — and 
camphire, one dram — mixed for one dose. 

SYMPTOMATIC FEVER. 

Causes. High feeding — close stable — want, 
of proper exercise — sudden transition from a 
cold to a hot temperature — taken from grass, 
and suddenly confined in a warm stable — ex- 
cessive exertion, long continued*— extensive 
wounds — inflammation of the lungs, bowels, 
kidneys, bladder, &c. 

Symptoms. The symptomatic fever has many 
symptoms in common with the sim.ple fever — 
which are, loss of appetite — quick pulse — de- 
jected appearance — hot mouth — debility, &c. — 
But, if it be occasioned by an inflammation of 
the lungs, those symptoms will be attended with 



45 

difficulty of breathing — quick workins; of the 
flanks*— coldness of the ears and legs, &c. 



The most eff'ectual remedy is copious bleed- 
ing, at the commencement of the disease ; and 
repeated in six hours, if the symptoms do not 
abate — taking care to regulate the quantity of 
blood drawn off, by the effect produced. * Blis- 
tering the sides, and rowelling the chest, may 
also be found useful — and, afterward, give 
the following ball, morning and evening, until 
the staling is considerably increased — and then 
one ball, daily, will be sufficient. 

Take powdered nitre, six drams — camphire, 
one dram — with syrup and linseed oil, sufficient 
to make a ball. See Inflammations. 

FARCY. 

De8criptio7i, The Farcy is, perhaps, the 

♦ To know whether bleeding' will be proper or not ; and to what 
extent it may be carried, with safety, it is essential to examine 
the state of the pulse ; and observe the appearance of the horse, 
when taken from the stable — for if much debility is indicated by 
his manner of walking, a corresponding weakness will be found 
In tlie pulse — and, under those circumstances, bleeding would 
certainly be injurious. See Bleeding. 



46 

most formidable and destrnctive disease (o which 
horses are subject ; and is so contagious tl;at, 
very frequently, every individual on a plantation 
are totally destroyed by it. The first appear- 
ance of this malady is in the veins, being full 
and hard ; and an eruption of small tumors, cal- 
led buds, about the legs, lips, face, neck, or 
any part of the body — which, in some cases, 
are so small, few in number, and occasion so 
little inconvenience to the animal, that, for a 
time, they escape observation — but in other 
cases, they are larger — more numerous — pain- 
ful — spread more rapidly — and a general swel- 
ling of the aifected part frequently takes place. 
These buds, which, at first, are hard, soon grow 
soft, and burst — discharge an oily or bloody 
ichor — and will, finally, become foul and spread- 
ing ulcers, of a peculiar appearance. And it 
may be observed, that this disease has an inva- 
riable direction to the heart — for, if it commence 
in the legs, it proceeds upwards — if in the 
neck, it advances towards the chest — ^and if in 
the lips or nose, its tendency is to the glands 
under the jaw. Sometimes, when the tumours 
suppurate, the disease spreads under the skia \ 
—and when this occurs on the hock joint, or on 



47 

the flexor tendons of the legs, it generally pro- 
duces lameness ; and is difficult to cure. When 
the disorder becomes extensive, it is usually 
accompanied with Glanders ; or very quickly 
succeeded by it. See Glanders. 

Symptoms. In some eases, the horse grad- 
ually loses flesh and strength — his coat becomes 
dry — the skin tight — and the hind legs swell. 
In other instances, he is attacked with lame- 
ness — and all without auy visible cause ; but, 
after a few days, the nature of the disease will 
be obvious. 

Causes. The most common cause appears 
to be contagion, from a horse already affected 
with the malady, or with Glanders — or it may 
be produced by a stagnation of the blood, in the 
capillary vessels, which becomes corrupt, and 
breaks out in tumors. 

Preventive. The free use of assafoetida, in 
he manger, watering vessel, and about the 
bridle bit, is recommended, as a certain antidote 
igainst the contagion of Farcy. 

REMEDIES. 

1. In the first stage of the disease, bleed three 



48 

times a week ; taking half a gallon of bloodl at 
a time — feed chiefly on bran, oats, or any food 
easily digested — remove all filth from about the 
stable — give mashes of bran, three times a week,. 
Scalded with sassafras tea, with one table spoon- 
ful of powdered sulphur, and one tea spoonfull 
of nitre — not permitting the horse to drink fori 
six hours aflervvard. Wrap half an ounce ofj 
assafoetida in a clean linen rag, and fasten it ini] 
the bottom of his manger ; and the same quan- 
tity in the bottom of his drinking vessel — and 
let his drink be equal parts of water and a strong; 
decoction of sassafras. The buds, or ulcers^ 
should be washed, once a day, with blue stone orj 
copperas water — and, if the knees or ancles ard 
swelled, spread mercurial ointment on soft lea-j 
ther, and bind it on the part, as tightly as possi- 
ble, without giving pain. 

In the second week, bleed twice ; proportion- 
ing the quantity to the strength and condition 
of the horse — give him bran mashes, prepared 
as before — and renew the assafcetida, in bothi 
places, if necssary. 

Tn the third week, bleed but once — taking onet 
quart of blood — continuing the treatment before 
directed. He should be moderately exercised, 



49 

twice a day ; and have a little homony, occasion- 
ally, offered to him, to preserve his appetite. 
And, at the expiration of the third week, if the 
disease was only local, it will be removed. 

2. AVhen the Farcy becomes epidemical, the 
cure is very difficult; and the aid of more active 
medicine will be required. To a horse thus 
diseased, give the following ball every night, 
for a week. 

Calomel, twenty. live grains — powdered fen- 
nel seed, a quarter of an ounce — syrup, of any 
kind, a small quantity — all mixed with as much 
crumb of loaf-bread as will make a ball about 
the size of an English walnut. All buds, or 
ulcers, must be washed clean with blue stone 
water — after which they should be well rubbed 
around with mercurial ointment, once a day — 
a narrow pitch plaster must be laid on at the 
junction of the head and neck, in the direction 
of the throat-latch ; for the purpose of taking 
off the hair : which it will do in two or three 
days. After which, a lump of mercurial oint- 
ment, about the size of a hickory nut, should be 
rubbed on the naked part, among the large 
glands of the throat, until it is intirely absorbed, 
every night and morning, during the week. 

,The treatment, generally, may be similar to that 
E 



50 

recommended in the first stage of the disorder ; 
with these exceptions — the sulphur must be 
omitted in his mashes ; because it would coun- 
teract the effect of the calomel and ointment. 
His drink should be a little warm — he must 
not be bled — and great care should be observed 
to prevent his getting wet ; and catching cold, 
in any way, while going through the course of 
physic. 

At the expiration of the first week, suspend 
the use of the balls and ointment, for one week || 
— and add sulphur to the mashes, as before 
directed. At the close of the second week, omit 
the sulphur ; and recommence with the balls 
and ointment. Proceed in this manner, chang- 
ing the medicine, each week, until a cure is ef- 
fected. , 

Sometimes a horse's mouth may become sore, 
while the balls and ointment are used. When- 
ever this is discovered, omit giving the balls — , 
and use sulphur in his mashes, as before — ' 
which will soon remove the soreness from his 
mouth. 

FISTULA. 

Description, A Fistula is a sinuous ulcer 
on the withers of a horse ; which generally 



51 

proceeds from a iiiueh or bruise from the sad- 
dle. 

REMEDIES. 

1. When the wound is recent, and not atten- 
ded with much swelling, bathe it, three or four 
times a day, with very warm vinegar. But, if 
that fail, mix either one ounce of the oil of vit- 
riol, or half an ounce of white vitriol, dissolved 
in a little water, with one quart of vinegar — 
and bathe, as before. Carefully guarding 
against a repetition of the injury already sus- 
tained. 

2. If the above applications prove ineffectual, 
in repelling the disease ; a suppuration must be 
promoted ; by applying the following fomenta- 
tion, several times in a day, with a woollen cloth, 
as hot as the horse can bear, without pain. 

Take either wormwood, chamomile, bay 
leaves, mullen, life-everlasting, or some other 
bitter herb — boil it in water to a strong decoc- 
tion — and strain it for use. 

When matter is formed, let the tumour be 
opened, by a skilful hand ; and, after the con- 
tents are completely evacuated, wash the. sore 
perfectly clean, with strong soap-suds — and ap- 
ply the following ointment, once a day. 

Verdigris and copperas, of each, half an 



52 

ounce — oil of turpentine, one ounce — ointment 
of yellow resin, four ounces — well mixed. 

As soon as healthy matter is discharged, the 
ointment may discontinued — and nothing further 
will be necessary ; except keeping the affected 
part intirely clean, with strong soap-suds. 

3. When a Fistula first appears, it may be 
removed, by placing a rowel, or seton, in each 
shoulder, just below the swelled part — which 
should be kept running two or three weeks. 

FOUNDER. 

Causes, Excessive hard travelling — plung- 
ing into deep and cold water, while hot and 
sweating — eating too much green corn — or too 
much bran, alone, while performing hard 
labour — drinking too freely of cold water, when 
very warm — eating too much strong food, after 
long fasting — violent exercise, when the belly 
is very full, &c. 

Symptoms. Great heat in the legs and pas- » 
terns — soreness in the feet — stiffness in all the 
limbs ; so that the horse frequently refuses to 
move, without compulsion — his flanks and lower 
part of his belly are drawn up — his hide be- 
comes bound — his feet placed a little more for- 
ward than usual or natural — a constant thirst — 



1 



53 

and, very ofteu, a considerable swelling of the 
ancles. 

REMEDIES. 

1, Take one gallon of blood from the neck 
vein — give a drench, consisting of one quart of 
sassafras tea, one tea spoonful of nitre, and a 
quarter of an ounce of assafoetida — and the horse 
must not be suftered to eat or drink for six hours 
afterward — when, if he should appear no better, 
the bleeding should be repeated ; by taking half 
a gallon more from the neck, and give him another 
similar drench. At night, offer hiui some bran 
or oats, scalded with sassafras tea— and if greeu 
food, fresh from the field, can be procured for 
him, it will open his bowels, and cool his sys- 
tem. His feet should be well cleaned out; and 
then filled with fresh cow dung ; which may be 
confined to the parts by pieces of leather. His 
drink must be equal quantities of sassafras tea 
and water, with a little salt added. Next morn- 
ing, if the horse appear much better, little fur- 
ther attention will be necessary ; except that of 
giving him food in small quantities. 

2. If the above remedy has produced no 

favourable change, tie a small cord a little above 

the knees ; and, with a lancet or fleam, bleed in 

a vein that runs round the coronet, just above 
E 2 



54 

the hoof — take a pint of blood from each leg — 
give him one pound of salts, dissolved in a quart 
of water, in a drench — keep his feet stuffed 
with fresh cow dung — and bathe his legs with 
equal parts of sharp vinegar, spirits and sweet 
oil, or lard. 

A foundered horse will sometimes seek a 
dunghill to stand on — which should always be 
prevented ; as the heat of it will increase the 
fever. 

When horses have been once foundered, they 
are subject to it ever afterward. Large ridges 
on the hoofs, or a turning up of the toes, are 
strong indications of old founders, or other in- 
juries. 

GLANDERS. 

Causes. This fatal disorder is generally be- 
lieved to be the effect of contagion — but, in some 
cases, it is supposed to proceed from severe and 
repeated colds. 

Symptoms, A discharge of matter from one 
or both nostrils — and a hard swelling of the 
glands, between the bones of the lower jaw. 
In the early stage of the malady, the discharge 
is small ; and, commonly, from one nostril only ; 
in which case, the swelling is mostly confined 



55 

to that side. But, as the disease advances, the 
glands under the jaw will become enlarged — 
ulcerations in both nostrils generally succeed — 
the discharge of matter will increase; and fre- 
quently mixed willi blood. When the disorder 
has arrived at this stage, the ulcerated parts with- 
in the nostrils, with the accumulation of matter, 
render respiration extremely diflficult — and, very 
probably, the poor animal will soon be relieved 
from his misery by death. As soon as a horse 
is suspected of having the glanders, immediate 
care should be taken to keep him intirely by 
himself; in order to prevent others from becom- 
ing victims to the deadly disease. 

REMEDIES. 

1. When the swelling under the jaw becomes 
very prominent, foment with the following de- 
coction, twice a day. 

Take chamomile, wormwood, marsh-mallow, 
and elder flowers, of each, one handful — boil 
them in three quarts of water, for a quarter of an 
hour — strain off the liquid — and, while hot, fo- 
ment the swelling with it, twice a day ; with a 
soft woollen cloth — confine the herbs on the af- 
fected part, as a poultice — and repeat the ap- 
plication two or three days. 

S. If, by the above means, the tumours tend 



56 

to suppuration; increasing in size, and becoming 
soft in the middle ; continue the fomentation — 
and apply the following poultice, morning and 
evening. 

Take of coarse bread, barley meal, and cha- 
momile or elder flowers, of each, one handful — 
boil them in a sufficient quantity of milk, or off 
the above decoction — into which stir white lily 
root, washed clean, and pounded to a paste ; ini 
quantity, about one third of the whole mass — 
adding thereto powdered linseed and foenugree, 
of each, one ounce — stirring in, while hot, ofl 
turpentine, two ounces — and lard, four ounces. 
Divide the mixture into two equal parts ; one ofl 
which must be applied to the swelling, moder- 
ately warm ; and confined with a firm bandage, 
during twelve hours — then remove it, and apply 
the other part in a similar manner. The poultice 
should be renewedj night and morning, until an 
opening in the swelling is eifected — and, after 
enlarging the orifice with a suitable instrument, 
apply the following ointment, spread on tow — 
repeating the poultices a day or two longer. 

Take of yellow basilicon. two ounces — tur- 
pentine and black basilicon, of each, one ouncei 
— red precipitate, finely powdered, half an 
ounce — melt the two basilicons together, over a 



57 

slow fire — when taken oflP, stir in tlie turpentine 
— and, lastly, when cool, add the precipitate — 
incorporating the whole together on a smooth 
stone. 

If the ahove remedies should not remove the 
disease ; the horse should be immediately put to 
death, and buried — and his stable, with all the 
appurtenances, be thoroughly cleansed and 
white-washed. 

GJIAVEL. 

Description. The gravel consists of small 
stones in the bladder; which prevent a free 
discharge of urine ; and often produces extreme 
pain. 

Symptoms. Frequent stretching — groaning 
— many fruitless attempts to stale ; discharging 
but a few drops at a time, with great difficulty 
— and, though clear of fever, yet his appearance 
is dull and sleepy. 

RExVIEDY. 

Take of marsh-mallow, watermelon seeds, 
and asparagus, of each, two large handfuls — 
boil them in three quarts of water, until reduced 
to one quart — add one tea spoonful of nitre — 
strain it well — and give it as a drench. Then, 
twith sweet oil, or fresh butter, anoint his sheath 



58 

' — and, after gently drawing out the penis, anoint 
that also — next, grease the large seam exten- 
ding from the penis nearly to the anus — and, 
finally, with a little pressure of the hand, stroke 
the seam downward to the extreme end of the 
penis, for ten minutes, every hour; until the 
horse has a more free discharge of urine — which i 
may be expected in a short time, after his taking ; 
the drench. If, however, that should not take' 
place in three hours ; repeat the dose — and 
continue the external application. 

GREASE, OR gCRATCHES. 

Description. An inflammation and swelling; 
of the heels — succeeded by a discharge of mat- 
ter — and sometimes the fever and swelling ex- 
tend to the knees or hocks. 

Causes. Excessive hard travelling — stand- 
ing long in the stable on hot dung, or in mud — 
legs and feet left wet and dirty all night. 

REMEDIES. 

1. Let the horse have a clean stable — take; 
half a gallon of blood from the neck vein — ^ 
wash his legs and ancles well, with strong soapi 
suds — clean his feet — and apply to the affected 
parts strong copperas water, twice a day ; until 



59 

a cure is effected. Give him, twice a week, a 
mash of bran, with a tea spoonful of nitre, and 
one table spoonful of flour of sulphur. 

2. After tiie horse is placed in a clean stall; 
and his feet are well cleaned and washed with 
soap suds — take of blue stone, one ounce- 
alum, four ounces — strong decoction of red oak 
bark, half a gallon — stir them together until the 
alum and blue stone are dissolved — with this 
mixture, wash the sores and inflamed parts, 
twice a day. Give him light or green food if 
to be had. 

3. After washing the legs and ancles with 
soap-suds ; and cleaning the feet ; take flour of 
sulphur and hog's lard, of each, one table spoon- 
ful — mix them well together — and anoint the 
sores, and parts inflamed, twice a day. A horse's 
legs will get well much sooner, when he is 
confined in a clean stable, than when he runs 
at liberty. 

HIDE-BOUND. 

description. In this complaint, the skin of 
a horse is so closely attached to his flesh and 
ribs, that it can hardly be moved over them ; or 
taken up with the thumb and fingers — the coat. 



60 

at the same time, has a rough and sickly appear- ^ 
ance. 

Causes. Excessive labour — poverty — feed- 
ing on musty hay, or bad food of any kind — i 
worms — want of attention in the groom — fever, j 
or some other disease. 

REMEDY. 

Furnish the horse with a clean stable, fresh i 
litter, and kind treatment — let him have plenty 
of good bran and oats — take half a gallon ofi 
blood from the neck vein — at night, give himi 
a mash, composed of four quarts of bran scald- 
ed with sassafras tea ; one table spoonful of flour 
of sulphur ; and one tea spoonful of nitre — not 
permitting him to drink for six hours after- 
ward. On the next day, at noon, give him ai 
drench ; consisting of warm sassafras tea, one 
quart — copperas, two table spoonfuls — and ni- 
tre, one tea spoonful. 

Let him have proper dressing, plenty of air,, 
moderate exercise, sound oats, sweet hay, and! 
clean soft water. 

HOOF-BOUNJ). 

JDescription. A contraction of the hoof — and, 
sometimes, an increased thickness of it — by 



61 



either of which the sensible parts of the foot 
become too much compressed. 

Causes. Keeping the horse's feet too dry — 
strait shoeing — or, cutting the frog so much as 
to prevent its touching the ground. See Shoeing. 

Symptoms. The bottom of the foot is chang- 
ed from a circular form to that of an oblong — 
inflammation and lameness — and, frequently, 
the frog becomes putrid ; and discharges a very 
offensive matter, t^ee Thrush. 

REMEDIES. 

1. Carefully remove all the carious parts of 
the frog with a knife — apply tar to those parts 
which are sound — and pour a small quantity of 
the same, or oil of turpentine, into the cleft of 
the frog. This will promote the secretion of 
horny matter ; and, if assisted by pressure, will 
increase the solidity of that which is already 
formed. The quarters and heels must be trim- 
med with a rasp ; and all the superfluous parts 
of the sole and toe removed with a butteris ; so 
that the frog may come in moderate contact with 
the ground. If the crust at the heel be too deep, 
it must be taken off, but, if too shallow, the 
shoe should be made thicker at the heel than 

the toe ; and a little longer than usual. 
F 



62 

S. When the feet have been treated as above 
directed, care must be taken to keep them as 
moist as possible — and the frogs continually 
exposed to pressure. In a short time they will 
become so hard and solid, that, if the season will 
admit of it, the horse, unshod, may be turned out 
to grass in soft meadow ground — where proper 
attention must be given, both to him and his 
feet. See Shoeing. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES. 

Causes, (^olds and fevers — high feeding, 
without sufficient exercise, &c. See Diseases 
of the Eyes. 

Symptoms. The transparent part of the eye 
has a film-like appearance — the lids are partly 
closed — and the haws are more visible than 
usual. 

REMEDIES. 

1. When the eyes become inflamed in conse- 
quence of a cold or fever, care must be taken 
to remove the cause — and the effect will natu- 
rally cease. See Cold and Catarrh, 

2. An inflammation of the eyes, occasioned 
by high feeding, violent exercise, a dark stable, 
&c. would, perhaps, be much easier prevented 
than cured — but, when they do become affected, 



63 

take two or three quarts of blood from the neck 
— or proportion the quantity to the violence of 
the disease, and condition of the horse. Then 
give him a laxative ball ; made of aloes and 
Castile soap, each, three drams. 

Or — give him a drench ; consisting of half a 
pound of Glauber's salts, dissolved in three 
quarts of water — and keep his bowels open 
with bran mashes. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH. 

Causes. Poisons — strong medicines— or bots. 

Symptoms. When the inflammation is occa- 
sioned by poison, or strong medicine, incautious- 
ly administered, the disease will commence 
suddenly — the pulse will be quick and weak — 
the extremities cold — respiration disturbed — 
and the countenance will appear dejected. 

REMEDY. 

Give the horse plenty of oily or slimy liquids 
— such as decoction of linseed; or gum arable, 
dissolved in water — and inject clysters of a 
strong decoction of linseed, or water gruel. 

When the disease is the effect of bots, apply 
the remedies prescribed for that complaint. See 
Bots. 



64 
INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 

Causes. High feeding on dry provision, 
without proper exercise— drinking too much 
cold water when heated by violent exercise — 
exposure to cold or rain, under similar circum- 
stances — flatulent colick — improper doses of 
purgative medicines, &c. 

Symptoms. An apparent disquietude in the 
disposition of the horse — frequently looking 
round to his flanks — his appetite diminished, or 
totally lost — urine scarce, and high-coloured — 
his dung will be dark, and very hard. And, as 
these symptoms increase, he will lie down and 
roll about — rise suddenly — lie down again, and 
roll as before — his breathing will become diffi- 
cult — pulse quick and small — violent sweats 
break out on his body — while his ears and legs 
are cold — sometimes delirium takes place ; and 
death soon ensues. 

REMEDY. 

As this disease is very rapid in its progress, 
it must be checked in its first appearance — or it 
will soon prove fatal. Copious bleeding is the 
prime remedy — and should be repeated, accor- 
ding to the strength of the horse — his sides 
should be blistered - his ears and legs kept 
warm, by frequent rubbing — and, in the inter- 



65 

yals, wrap them in woollen clotb. Give him one 
pint of castor oil—and repeat the dose in six 
hours ; unless the costiveness should be previ- 
ously removed. Clysters, composed of warm 
water and a little sweet oil, must be adminis- 
tered, every second or third hour, until the dung 
become soft. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS. 

Causes. This disease is frequently the ef- 
fect of improper management in the treatment 
of a horse — too sudden removal from a cold to 
a. comparatively hot temperature — or violent 
exercise ; which renders the circulation of the 
blood too rapid — and propels it to the smaller 
passages with so much velocity, as not only to 
produce immediate inflammation, but, some- 
times, to rupture some of the finer vessels—from 
which Broken Wind or Consumption frequent- 

I ly proceeds. 

Symptoms. At the commencement of the 

i disorder, the horse loses appetite — appears 
melancholy — holds his head low — frequently 
moves his feet, alternately. And, as the fever 

i increases, his breathing becomes difficult ; some- 
times attended with a short and painful cough 

— his countenance appears anxious and uneasy 

F2 



66 

— his breath hot — mouth dry — his ears, and 
other extremities, feel cold— and he seldom lies 
down, while able to stand. 

REMEDIES. 

1. In the early stage of the disease, copious 
bleeding must be the first operation — drawing 
off as much blood as the strength of the animal 
will admit — let him stand in a clean stable ; pro- 
perly ventilated— mix very sweet hay, cut fine? 
and bran together — scald, and place the mix- 
ture in his manger, while hot— renew it every 
four or five hours — that, by inhaling the fumes, 
the glands may be relaxed ; and a discharge 
from the nostrils excited. Give him a pint of 
castor oil — inject a clyster of flaxseed tea, or 
warm gruel — and keep his legs warm, by rub- 
bing and clothing. 

S. If, in twelve hours after the above appli- 
cations, there appear no abatement of the dis- 
order; or, if it has become more violent — repeat 
the bleeding; in proportion to the strength of 
the horse, or severity of the symptoms — and give 
him a pint of the following decoction, with an 
ounce of nitre added, every five or six hours ; 
accending to the state of the disease. 

Take of pearl barley, split raisins, and Tur- 
key figs, sliced, each, six ounces— and stiqk 



67 

licorice, bruised, two ounces— boil them in a 
gallon of water ; until the liquid is reduced to 
three quarts — strain it oft^ — while hot, stir in 
one pound of honey — and, when cold, add one 
pint of distilled vinee;ar. And if plentiful evac- 
uations have not been produced by the clyster 
above described, it must be repeated. 

When the dangerous symptoms appear to 
subside, let the horse's food be mashes of scald- 
ed bran ; with four ounces of honey added to 
each mash — and, for his drink, give him thin 
gruel; with two ounces of cream of tartar dis- 
solved in each draught. 

But, if the above remedies should prove inef- 
fectual ; and a suppuration take place ; the loss 
of (he animal may be anticipated, almost with 
certainty. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER. 

Cause, An obstruction in the biliary ducts, 
or in the gall bladder ; situated between tJie two 
lobes of the liver. 

Sifmjotoms. Yellow eyes and mouth- dark 
coloured urine — fever — great weakness —lan- 
guid appearance — and almost continually lying 
down. Sometimes the disease is very rapid in 
its progress— and; at other times, it advances 



68 

gradually. In the latter case, it frequently ter 
minates in dropsy, or an inflammation of the 
bowels. 

IIEMEDIES. 

1. At the commencement of the disease, mod- 
erate bleeding may be safe and useful ; but af- 
terward, it will, generally, be injurious ; by pro- 
ducing a dangerous degree of debilitj^ — If the 
horse should be costive, give him a ball, every 
twelve hours, composed of the following ingre- 
dients ; until they occasion moderate purging. 

Calomel, half a dram — aloes, one dram— Cas- 
tile soap, two drams — rhubarb, half an ounce — 
and syrup enough to form the ball, for one dose. 

But, if the bowels are already in a lax state, 
give the horse either of the following balls, in 
a similar manner, until relieved. 

Opium, three fourths of a dram — calomel, one 
dram — and Castile soap, two drams— with syr- 
up enough to form a ball, for one dose. 

Or — Opium and calomel, of each, one dram 
— emetic tartar, two drams — licorice powder, 
three drams — and syrup sufficient to form the 
ball, for one dose. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS. 

Causes. An improper use of diuretic med- 



69 

icines— blows on the loins— and, sometimes, too 
great a pressure of the saddle^ when placed 
over them. 

Symptoms. A weakness in the back and 
loins — almost continually endeavouring to stale; 
and frequently voiding a small quantity of 
high-coloured or bloody urine — and, as the 
inflammation increases, a total suppression of 
urine ; and a fever generally succeeds. 

REMEDY. 

Draw off three or four quarts of blood — give 
from sixteen to twenty ounces of castor oil — in- 
ject clysters of warm water— aud cover the loins 
with a sheepskin. If the oil should not operate 
in a few hours, and the horse not be relieved, 
repeat the bleeding — and give him another dose 
of oil. 

INi^XAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. 

Symptoms. Almost continual attempts to 
stale; but voiding only a few drops of urine at 
a time ; apparently with great pain — generally, 
a quick pulse ; and other symptoms of fever. 

REMEDIES. 

1. Give the horse plenty of linseed decoction ; 
or any other mucilaginous liquid— and frequent- 



70 

ly inject clysters of the same. Moderate bleed- 
ing, and a dose of castor oil, will also be ne- 
cessary. After the oil has operated, give him 
the following ball, every sixth hour. 

Powdered nitre, half an ounce — eamphire, 
one dram — licorice powder, three drams — with 
honey sufficient to form the ball, for one dose. 

2. If no relief should be obtained by the above 
means, give him one dram of opium, twice a day; 
and omit giving the ball. And, if the horse be 
costive, give him another dose of oil — and re- 
peat the clyster. 

JAUNDICE, OR YELLOWS. 

Cause. This disease is generally the effect; 
of an increased action of the liver ; whereby an 
unusual quantity of bile is secreted. 

Symptoms.*^ Yellowness of the eyes, mouth 
and tongue — loss of appetite — lassitude — urine 
of a reddish or dark colour — and, sometimes, 
the disorder is attended with costiveness ; but, 
generally, with purging. 

• Although some of the symptoms of Jaundice are similar to 
those of an Inflammation of the Liver -, yet the diseases are believ- 
ed to be essentially different — and may be distinguished by the 
fever, which always accompanies the latter complaint. 



71 



IIRMEDIES. 

1. - When costiveness is one of tbe symptoms, 
give the horse a ball, composfd of the follow- 
ing ingredients, every morning, till moderate 
purging is produced. 

Calomel, half a dram — aloes, one dram — 
Castile soap, two drams — rhubarb, three drams 
— with syrup enough to make the ball, for one 
dose. 

2. But, if the bowels are already open, or in 
a state of purging, give the following dose, every 

I morning, as long as may appear necessary. 
! Calomel and opium, of each, one dram — Co- 
ilumbo root, powdered, three drams — powder- 
1 ed ginger, half a dram — and syrup sufficient 

to form a ball. 

The horse's strength should be supported by 

an infusion of malt, or water gruel. 

LAJMPASS. 

Description. The Lam pass is a swelling of 
the inner gums of the upper jaw (particularly in 
* young horses) which frequently projects below 
the teeth ; and renders mastication very difficult. 
And the animal will soon become lean, weak 
and dejected. 

Cause. This troublesome complaint is sup- 
posed to be the effect of fever. 



72 



REMEDIES. 

1. Remove the cause; by applying the rem- 
edies prescribed for fevers. Or, a mess or two \ 
of hard Indian corn will, generally abate the 
swelling. 

2. The most effectual remedy is burning with 
a hot iron, made for the purpose — taking great 
care not to touch the teeth, or burn so deep as 
to injure the bone. After the operation is per- 
formed, wash the part, two or the times, with a 
mixture of honey of roses, and tincture of myrrh, 
each, one ounce — and feed with bran or meal^ 
and a little salt added. 

LAMENESS. 

Causes. Lameness is generally the effect of! 
strains — bruises — splents — spavins — ring-bones 
— windgalls — founder — grease — thrush — quittor 
— corns — canker — hoof-bound, &c. — improper 
shoeing — too constant labour, or want of suffici- 
ent rest, &c. I 

REMEDIES. 

When a horse becomes lame ; first ascertain 
th cause — and then apply the remedy prescri- 
bed for that particular complaint. 

LOCK-JAW. 

Description. The Lock-jaw commences withl 



73 

a diilicuUy of mastication ; and, shortly after, 
the jaws become so completely and immoveably 
closed, that neither medicine nor food can be 
administered — the muscles of the neck are much 
contracted — and the horse appears to suffer 
great pain. 

Causes. This complaint is occasioned, gen- 
erally, by wounds in some of the feet, nerves^ 
tendons, &c. 

REMEDIKS. 

1. Cold water, suddenly applied, in large 
quantities. 

2. Friction, with turpentine oil, or any kind 
of spirits — and a clyster administered, compo- 
sed of two ounces of spirits of hartshorn, four 
ounces of oil of turpentine, mixed with one 
quart of strong ale and whiskey. 

3. Copious bleeding has, in some eases, been 
found useful. 

4. Hartshorn, aether, opium, and brandy, 
have sometimes been used with success. 

MANGE. 

Causes. Unwholesome food — poverty — a 
filthy stable — and, sometimes, infection. 

Symptoms. The horse will be almost per» 

petually rubbing his neck or tail against a fence, 
G 



74 

or some other object that will suit bis purpose 
—until those parts become nearly bereft of hair 
— leaving a naked, thick, rough, and wrinkled 
skin. 

REMEDIES. 

1. If the horse's strength will admit, draw 
off a small quantity of blood — keep him in a 
clean stable — wash the affected parts witli warm 
soap-suds ; and anoint them with a mixture of 
bog's lard and flour of sulpluir, equal parts, 
twice a day. And, every night and morning, give 
bim a mash of bran, or bran and oats ; mixing 
one ounce of the flour of sulphur with it — and let 
bim have a little dry corn, every day, at noon. 
His drink should have an ounce of nitre dissol- 
ved in it, twice a day. 

When a cure appears to be effected, the ap- 
jdication of ointment must be discontinued ; and 
the diet may soon be changed to good oats and 
sweet hay, without physic. 

2. But if the disease should not be removed 
by the above means, in ten or twelve days, the 
bleeding may be repeated, in proportion to the I 
strength of the animal — wash, frequently, with 
the following lotion. 

White helebore, powdered, two drams ; boil- 
ed in three pints of water, till reduced to one . 



75 

quart — and muriate of quicksilver, dissolved iu 
three drams of muriatic acid, two drams. And 
take muriate of quicksilver, half an ounce— 
tartarized antimony, three ounces — powdered 
anniseeds, six ounces — powdered ginger, two 
ounces — and syrup sufficient to form the mass, 
for sixteen balls — one of which must be given 
every morning — but if they diminish the appe- 
tite, or produce purging, they must be discon- 
tinued two or three days. 

MOON-EYES. 

The eyes of a horse will sometimes vary in 
colour every month ; and are, therefore, called 
-*Moon-Kyes — from an opinion that the affection 
or disease increases and decreases with the 
course of that planet — for at the full moon, the 
eyes, generally one at a time, will have a mud- 
dy appearance ; and discharge an ichorous wa- 
ter, so sharp as to excoriate the skin — and at 
the new moon, become clear again. 

Symptoms. When the disease commences, 
one of the eyes will be much swelled — very 

•frequently shut — and the ball of a muddy, brown 
colour. The veins of the temple, and those 

, near the eye, will appear very full of blood. 



76 



REMP-DY. 

Copious bleedings, and repeatedly washing 
the eyes with cold water, will afford temporary 
relief — but, as the complaint is generally the 
harbinger of a cataract, it seldom admits of a 
permanent cure. 

MALLENDERS. 

Description. Mallenders are hard scabs 
on the inside of the knee joint, separated by 
cracks ; which generally discharge a glutinous 
kiud of matter — and, if long neglected, frequent- 
ly produce lameness. 

Cause. This complaint is commonly the 
effect of careless or improper management of 
the horse« 

REMEDIES. 

1. Cut off the hair, and wash the parts affec- 
ted with warm soap-suds, night and morning — 
after washing, wipe them till dry ; and apply 
the following ointment, twice a day. 

Take ointment of wax or spermaceti, two 
ounces — olive oil, one ounce— camphire and oil 
of rosemary, of each, one dram — acetated water 
of litharge, two drams — and mix them together 
for use. 

^. If the above treatment should not effect a 



77 

cure^ wash the parts well, twice a clay, with a 
mixture of vinegar, water, and soap-lees, equal 
parts — when dry, dress them with strong mercu- 
rial ointment — and, if it appear necessary, take 
a moderate quantity of blood from the neck — and 
give the animal an ounce of nitre in his drink, 
night and morning, two weeks. 

MOLTEN GREASE. 

Description. This complaint is, by some, 
supposed to be a rarefaction and solution of fat 
on the membranes, in various parts of the body 
— by others, it is not considered as a distinct 
disease ; but only a symptom of general inflam- 
mation, or fever. 

Causes. Sudden, violent, or long continued 
exercise ; when just taken from grass, too full of 
light and flatulent food, or when overloaded 
with fat. 

Symptoms. A mucus, resembling fat, is 

discharged with the dung — when the lungs are 

aifected, the breathing is difficult — the flanks 

move unusually quick, and the nostrils are much 

expanded — and when the blood is generally 

diseased, fever quickly ensues. 
G2 



78 

liEMEDIliS. 

1. Copious bleeding, according to age, strength 
and attendant symptoms — and if tlie bowels are 
affected, accompanied with purging, promote 
the operation ; by frequently giving the horse a 
decoction of linseed — of powder of arrow-root 
— or gum arabic, dissolved in water. When 
he voids dung very often, and in small quanti- 
ties, with a mixture of hard lumps ; give him a 
pint of castor oil — and, if necessary, repeat the 
dose in about two days afterward. ' 

2. If the above remedy should not be effec- 
tual 'y and the horse continues to eject small 
quantities of excrement, apparently with great 
pain, and considerable irritation about the anus 
— give him the following clyster — taking all 
possible care to avoid injuring the part, with 
the pipe. 

Mix opium, one dram and a half, with warm 
water, eight ounces — and add about a quart of 
water, in which starch has been boiled, until it 
is of a proper consistence for the purpose, 

3. If the last application should fail to remove 
the irritation and pain ; repeat the dose of cas- 
tor oil — and gently inject a clyster, composed 
of water gruel and a little oil. 



79 
POLL-EVIL. 

Description, This disease is a swelling, or 
abscess, in the sinew of the poll, and nape of the 
neck. 

Causes. The poll-evil, like a fistula, gener- 
ally proceeds from a blow, bruise, or some other 
external injury. 

REMEDIES. 

1. When the swelling first appears, bathe 
it, frequently, with hot vinegar — and, if the hair 
be fretted oif, and there is an oozing through 
the skin, use equal parts of vinegar and spirits 
of wine. But, if there be an itching, with heat 
and inflammation, bleed plentifully-— and apply 
the following poultice ; which will sometimes 
disperse the swelling; and put an end to the 
disease. 

Take one quart of a strong decoction of red 
oak bark, and stir in a sufficient quantity of 
Indian meal to form a poultice. 

2. If the above applications are ineffectual ; 
and the swelling shows evident signs of matter ; 
the following poultice should be applied im- 
mediately ; in order to produce suppuration — 
Indian meal, marsh-mallow, oil of turpentine, 
and hog's lard. When the tumour becomes ripe, 



80 

or full of matter, and does not break voluntarily f 
it should be opened with a sharp instrument — 
taking great care not to wound the tendinous 
ligament that extends along the neck, under the 
mane. — If the matter appears to be on both sides, 
the tumors must both be carefully opened — so as 
to leave the ligament undivided and unhurt. — 
When the discharge is copious — resembles 
melted glue — is of an oily consistence — and any 
cavities are discovered by the finger or probe — 
the incision must be repeated — and the wound 
should be dressed with spirits of turpentine, 
honey, and tincture of myrrh ; until a thick and 
light coloured matter is discharged. Cleanse* 
the parts with strong soap-suds and a sponge — 
then take verdigris, half an ounce — oil of tur- 
pentine, four ounces — blue stone, two ounces — 
green copperas, half an ounce — mix them well 
together — and hold them over a fire until they 
are as hot as the horse can bear them — then 
pour them into the abscess ; and close the lips by' 
one or two stitches — this is to remain for several 1 
days, without any other dressing ; except bath- 
ing with spirits of wine. If the discharge 
should be very abundant, and of thin consist- 
ence, the above application must be repeated 5; 
until the matter decreases in quantity, and be 



81 

comes of a whitish colour^ aud healtliy appear- 
ance. 

QUITTOR. 

Description. A quittor is a swelling, or an- 
ulcer, in the coronet; generally on the inside, 
quarter of the foot ; and, if neglected, will pen- 
etrate under the hoof; and become very difficult 
to cure. 

Causes. Bruises, treads, lacerations, or 
wounds of any kind. 

REMEDIES. 

1. If the wound be only superficial, the cure 
may be eft'ected by cleansing it well, with a 
sponge and warm watef — then washing it fre- 
quently with spirit of wine — and applying a 
plaster of basilicon, mixed with a little precipi- 
late. 

S. lint when the disease has penetrated the. 
foot, within the hoof, it will be necessary, care- 
fully and skilfully, to take away part of the hoof. 
Let the affected part be properly cleaned — and 
dress it with either black or yellow basilicon, 
spread on lint, and placed under a pledget of 
tow, covered with the following ointment. Tak- 
ing care to keep the foot out of water and dirt. 

Olive oil, one pint — yellow wax and black 



82 

rosin, of each, foui' ounces — Burgundy pitch and 
turpentine, of each, two ounces — melt the wax, , 
rosin and pitch, in the oil, over a slow fire — 
when taken off, stir in the turpentine. — For 
large ulcers, where a plentiful discharge is re- 
quired, incorporate three ounces of the spirits of 1 
turpentine with the above mixture, while warm., 
If fungus, called proud fleshy should appear,, 
touch it gently with a piece of unslaked lime. 

RINGBONE. i 

l}cscri})twn. The ringbone is a hard excres-- 
sence on the fore part of the pastern, near the 
coronet; which, like a ring, frequently extends5 
half way round the ancle — and, very often, pro-, 
duces lameness. 

Causes. Bruises, strains, &c. 

REMEDY. 

When the disease is first discovered, blister 
ing with flies will generally effect a cure — bufci 
if suffered to continue long, any attempt to ic-l 
move it will be ineffectual. 

SPAVINS. 

Of this disease there are two kinds — denomi- 
nated Blood-Spavin and Bone-Spavin. 



BLOOD-SPAYIN. 

Descrijjilon. The Blood-spavin is a soft tu- 
mor on the inside of the hock — whicl), if long 
neglected, will occasion lameness. 

Cause. A preternatural enlargement of the 
vein. 

. IIEMEDIES. 

P d. Hub in about two table spoonfuls of the 
following embrocation, twice a day — and con- 
fine a bandage of flannel, wet with the same 
|liquid, on the part affected. 
j Mix of strong vinegar, four ounces — cam- 
Ipborated spirits of wine, three ounces — extract 
'of saturn, one ounce — and shake them well to- 
gether immediately before using. 

2. But if the disease has been of long contin- 
uance ; and will not yield to the above treat- 
ment ; apply the following composition, every 
forty. eight hours, during a week — gradually 
nibbing it in with the hand — and keep a flannel 
bandage over it, as before. 

Take of powdered cantharides, one dram — 
olive oil, two ounces — and mix them together. 

BONE-SPAVIN. 

Description. The bone spavin is a callous 
eivcrcssence about the hoek joint — which, if loug 



84 

neglected, will adhere to the bone — and incura- 
ble hinieness is generally the cousequeiiiee. 

Causes. If. is suppoised, sometimes^ to be the 
effect of excessive labour — but, more frequently, 
a hereditary complaint — descending from either 
sire or dam. 

REMEDIES. 

1. When a bone-spavin appears on the inside 
of the hock, of a young horse, and is produced 
by violent exercise — ^rest, and frequent bathing 
with the following mixture, will generally efi'ect 
a cure. 

Take extract of saturn, two ounces — cam- 
phorated spirits of wine, four ounces — mix them 
together — then add good vinegar, one pint — 
shake them well — lastly, add one pint of soft 
water ; for use. And keep the part bound with 
flannel, saturated with the mixture. 

S. But if the complaint is not removed by the 
above application, make use of the following 
blister ointment. 

Powdered cantharides, euphorbium, and cor- 1 
rosive sublimate, of each, one dram ; mixed [ 
with one ounce of the oil of bays. 

All the hair on the affected part must first be 
cut off; and the ointment pretty thickly spread 
over the place. This should be done in tha 



is 



85 

morning ; and the horse so tied up as to prevent 
his rubbing any of the ointment off — and, at 
night, a plaster of pitch must be well bound on, 
to keep all safe. 

After the blister is done running, and the 
scabs begin to peel oiT, a second and similar 
application may be made — which, if the horse 
be young, will generally effect a perfect cure. 

SPLENTS. 

Description. Splents are bony excressences 
on the fore legs of some horses (generally young 
ones) between the knees and fetlock-joints — 
which are sometimes disagreeable to the sight ; 
but are seldom injurious; ex(fept when situated 
near the joints, or under the large tendons on 
tlie back part of the leg — when tiiey never fail 
to produce lameness. 

Old horses are not very subject to splents, 
unless they had them while young ; or they are 
jccasioned by blows, accidents, &c. 

REMEDIES. 

1. When the swelling is first discovered, 
)alhe the part well with hot vinegar, twice a 
lay — and, immediately afterward, rub it with 
L smooth, round stick, about fifleea minutes — 
H 



86 

repeating the applications one week ; or longer, 
if necessary. 

2. If the above treatment should not remove 
the complaint ; cut off the hair that covers the 
diseased part ; and apply a plaster of Spanish 
ilies. 

SADDLE-GALLS, OR WARBLES. 

Description. Saddle-Galls are inflamed swell. 
ings on the sides or back of a horse — which, 
if neglected, frequently become troublesome 
ulcers. 

Cause. Extreme pressure and friction of some 
hard and protuberant part of the saddle. | 

llEMEDlES. 

d. When the saddle is taken off; if, on exa« 
mination, any bruise or inflammation be disco- 
vered ; wash the part, immediately, with plenty 
of cold water — and take care to prevent a repe-il 
tition of the injury. 

3. If the above application should not disU 
perse the fever; use the following mixture^, 
twice a day. 

Sharp vinegar, and spirits of any kind, ofl 
each, one gill— and sweet oil, or fresh butter, 
one table spoonful — all properly incorporated? 



87 

^. When the skin is rubbed off, let a little 
whitelead he occasionally sprinkled on the raw 
flesh. 

A person, when on a journey, should always 
have some of the article with him, for this 
purpose, 

SITFAST. 

Description, A silfast is a hard and horny 
lump in the skin, about the back or shoulder of 
a horse — frequently succeeds a gall of the sad- 
dle or harness — and is produced by the same 
means. 

REMEDY. 

Take up the callous part with a pair of pin- 
cers — and, by leaning them on one side, it may 
be readily taken off with a sharp knife. After 
which, the wound may be healed, in a short 
time, by using either of the following mixtures. 

Of brandy and honey, each, half a pint — and 
alum, two ounces. 

Or — of blue stone, a quarter of an ounce — 
spirits of turpentine, two table spoonfuls— and 
spring water, one pint. 

Or — of sugar of lead, half an ounce — alum, 
one ounce — and copperas, half an ounce — mix 
them well together — and wash the wound twice 
a day — after cleansing it with warm soap-suds. 



» 



88 

STAGGERS. 

Symptoms. Unusual disposition in the horse 
in sleep — the eyes inflamed, and half shut — 
reat debility — -hanging his head, or resting it 
on the manger — the ears hot with a burning 
fever — rearing, and throwing himself abonfc 
with great violence — and, finally, falling, and 
lying in a stale of insensibility. 

Cause. The disease is supposed to he pro- 
duced by eating grass, very early in the morn- 
ing, while covered with dew, and a poisonous 
web, indnstriousiy spun and spread by small 
spiders, during the night. When a horse feeds 
on pasture in this situation, he must unavoidably 
swallow a large quantity of the web ; and some 
of the weavers also — the effect of which, some- 
times, is delirium, apoplexy, &c. 

REViEDIES. 

1. Take from the neck vein half a gallon of ;; 
blood, three times a week, if the animal can 
bear it — and give liira a drench, composed of 
sassafras tea, three half pints — plantain juice, | 
half a pint — assafoelida, half an ounce — and 
nitre, one tea spoonful — three times in a week — 
and inject a clyster, consisting of one pint of 
meal, two quarts of water, one pint of molasses, , 



89 

and one spoonful of liog's lard. — Moderate ex- 
ercise, and frequent rubbing, should not be 

I neglected — and, twice a week, give bim four 
quarls of bran, wiih one (able spoonful of sul- 
phur, one tea spoonful of nitre, one eighth of an 

I ounce of assafoelida, and one quart of boiling 
sassafras tea — not permitting Isim to drink cold 
water for six hours afterward. If these appli- 
cations should have a favourable effect, nothing 
further will be necessary ; except to feed with 
bran, or other light food of any kind. 

2. But if (he above treatment should not give 
relief — take of calomel, twenty-five grains — 
opium and camphire, each, two drams — pow- 
dered fennel seed, one dram — syrup, of any 
kind, sufficient to form a ball — and give him 
one of these balls, every morning, four or five 
days — in which time he will be well ; if not 

incurable. 

STRAINS. 

'-'^ Description. A strain is an unnatural relax- 
ation, extension, or rupture of some of the ten- 
dons or muscles — an<l which is generally suc- 
ceeded by inflammation and lameness. 

Causes. Violent exertions in drawing — short 
and sudden turns — cruel treatment — slips, falls, 

vkfi, 

L H2 



90 

REMEDIES. 

1. An important, if not the principal means 
of cure, will be rest. — Take from the neck vein 
two quarts of blood — and, in the next place, 
carefully endeavour to discover the injured 
part — which may be generally found by the 
inflammation — or by the movements of the horse 
— and, sometimes, by both. When the shoulder 
is strained, he will draw the foot, on that side, 
gently along the ground — but, if the complaint 
is in the foot, he will protrude that foot forward; 
to prevent the weight of his body from resting 
on it. — The seat of disease being ascertained — 
take of sharp vinegar, one pint — spirits, of any 
kind, half a pint — camphire, one ounce — mix 
them well together — and bathe twice a day. If 
the place will admit, bind a piece of flannel 
round it, wet with the mixture. 

2. Or — take of opodeldoc, a piece about the 
size of a marble, and rub it on the strained part 
with the hand, twice a day. 

If the above applications fail, the horse must 
have a cool and opening diet, or be turned out 
to grass, a sufficient length of time for nature to 
perform the cure. 



91 

STRANGLES. 

Descrijption. This is a distemper to which all 
horses are liable — especially while young. It 
generally commences with inflammation and 
swelling of the glands under the jaw, and 
about the throat*— and, before suppuration take 
place, it is with extreme difficulty the horse can 
swallow. 

Causes. Violent colds — excessive hard la- 
bour, after long idleness — shedding teeth — or 
whatever may produce a flux of humours on the 
throat and jaws, at any critical time. 

Symptoms. Dejection of countenance — wa- 
tery eyes — a distressing cough — discharge from 
the nostrils — enlarged glands between the bones 
of tlie under jaw — loss of appetite — and constant 
thirst, without being able to drink j except the 
water is placed as high as his head, when in its 
natural position. 

; REMEDY. 

Bleed four times within a week — taking half 
a gallon from the neck each time, if the condi- 
tion of the horse will allow it — give him, twice 
a week, four quarts of bran or oats, scalded 
with one quart of sassafras tea; addio.'^ one 
table spoonful of powdered brimstone; with one 



92 

tea spoonful of nitve. Confine one fourth of an 
ouoc'j of assafcBiida in his manger; and the same 
quantity in the bottom of his watering bucket. 
Feed with green food chieSy, if to be had ; or 
such as is light, cooling, and easily digested. 

STKANGUARy. 

Description. This disease is an obstruction 
or temporary suppression of urine. 

Causes. Hardened dung retained in the 
straight gut — paralytic disorder in the kidneys; 
disabling them in their office of separating the 
urine from the blood — inflammation of the kid- 
neys — or inflammation of the bladder itself. 

Symytoms. When the disorder is the effect 
of inflammation, the horse will frequently at- 
tempt to stale; stand wide; be full; and have 
his flanks distended— but when occasioned by 
an obstruction in the kidneys, without inflam- 
mation, tl'.e bladder is usually empty ; and the 
horse makes no motion to stale. And if he 
should continue a few days in this condition, 
his body will swell greatly — break out in 
blotches all over — and death wiil quickly close 
the scene. 

REMIiDIES. 

1. At the commencement of the disease; in 



93 

the latter case, rub tbe reins of the horse with 
two parts of the oil of turpentine, and one part 
of oil of amber — and apply a poultice to the 
same place ; composed of garlic, horse-radish, 
mustard seed, camphire, and green soap; spread 
on tliick cloth. Give the horse a drench, con- 
sisting of thin gruel, tliree gills — powdered 
gum arable and nitre, of each, one ounce — and 
liquid laudanum, three drams — all mixed toge- 
ther. Which may be occasionally repeated. 

His diet should consist of warm mashes, im- 
pregnated with honey. 

S. When the disorder is produced by inflam- 
mation, or too long a retention of the urine, it 
will be necessary to bleed plentifully ; and give 
the following drench, every few hours, twice or 
thrice ; or until the animal is relieved. 

A decoction of marsh-mallow roots — adding 
to each dose two ounces of gum arable, dis- 
solved in a little boiling water — and half an 
ounce of sweetened spirit of nitre. And if the 
horse be costive, let emollient clysters be fre» 
quently injected. 

SURFEIT. 

Causes. Injudicious or cruel treatment — sud- 
den changes from heat to cold — deep plunging 



u 

into cold water, or diinklDg too freely immedi- 
ately after excessive hard travelling, or other 
exercise — eating unsound food — being turned 
out of a warm stable into the cold night air or 
dew, &c. 

Symptoms. Many small lumps under the 
skin — a partial shedding of the hair — and a 
constant itching. At length scabs and small 
ulcers will appear — and, if neglected, the hair 
will nearly all fall off — and the horse become 
covered with scabs. ^^ 

REMEDY. 1 

Take two quarts of blood from the neck vein, ' 
twice in a week — give the horse four quarts of 
bran, one table spoonful of sulphur, one teat 
spoonful of nitre, and one quart of hot sassafras^ 
tea, well mixed together, three times a week — 
and he must not be permitted to drink, during 
six hours, after eating his mash. — Give him 
three drenches within the week ; each composed 
of one quart of sassafras tea and one tea spoon- 
ful of nitre — keep his stable clean — and suffer 
him not to get wet. — In the mean time anoint 
the most ulcerous parts, once a day, with a mix- 
ture of hog's lard and sulphurj equal portions-r 
give him light food — and treat him kindly. 



95 
STRING HALT. 

Description. The string-halt is a false ac- 
tion or an involuntary use of a muscle in one of 
the hind legs of a horse; and, sometimes, both — 
which frequently twitches them up, almost to 
the belly. 

Causes. This complaint is generally the eifect 
of a strain — a violent blow — or washing the 
legs, while very warm, with extremely cold 
water. 

REMEDY. 

Although a temporary relief may be obtained, 
by rubbing the part, and bathing it with warm 
vinegar and sweet oil ; yet a perfect cure is sel- 
dom eftected. 

SALLENDERS. 

Bescrijption. Sallenders are hard scabs on 
the front part of the hock. They are similar to 
malienders — produced by the same cause — and 
cured by the same means. fSee Malienders, 

SAND-CRACK. 

Description* A sand.crack is a cleft or fis- 
sure in the hoof — generally extending from the 
jcoronet, near the heel, towards the toe. 



96 

Cause. This disease is supposed to be oc- 
casioaed b)^ a contraction of the foot ; when the 
hoof is dry and brittle. 

REMEDY. 

When a sand-crack is first discovered ; rasp 
the edges smooth — apply a pledgit, dipped in 
basilicoii — confine it on with a handage — and 
keep the foot continually moist. 

•Eut if the disease should be long neglected, 
it will become a quittor ; and must be treated in 
a similar manner. See Quittor. 

SORE MOUTH. 

When a horse's mouth or tongue is discover- 
ed to be sore, it siiould be washed, two or three 
times a day, with the following mixture. Sugar 
of lead, three fourths of an ounce — bole ammo- 
niac, half an ounce — burnt alum, one ounce — 
and good vinegar, one pint. 

THOROUGH-PIN. 

Dpscription. This is a swelling on both sides 
of the hock-joint — and when one of the tumours 
is pressed with the fi'iger, the fluid contained 
in it> will be. forced to the opposite side. 

It is generally the effect of hard labour — • 



97 

aud difficult to cure. The only remedies are 
blisters and rest. 

THRUSH. 

Description. This disease consists of a dis- 
charge of foetid matter from the cleft of the frog ; 
when the part is so soft and rotten as to be in- 
capable of affording protection to the sensible 
frog, which it covers. Hence arises that ten- 
derness of the foot, which is so frequently ob- 
served. 

Causes. The thrush is generally produced 
by a contraction of the horny matter at the heels; 
by which the sensible frog is compressed and in- 
flamed — or by frequent bruises ; for want of 
proper shoeing. See Shoeing. 

Remarks. The discharge whicli takes place, is a 
consequence of the inflammation ; and may be con- 
sidered as an effort of nature to cure it.* The dis- 
charge diminishes tiie inflammation ; or prevents it 
from becoming violent — but when it has been stop- 
ped by the injudicious application of astringents, or 
voluntarily ceases, tlie inflammation will soon be 
greatly increased — extend to the other parts of the 
foot — and occasion severe lameness — which, gen- 
erally, will be relieved, or removed, by a return of 
the discharge. 



98 



REMEDIES. 

1. It will be necessary, in the first place, to 
remove the cause; by rasping the heel — and 
keeping the hoof constantly moist ; by making 
the horse stand in soft clay, some part of the day 
— taking care to keep the frog dry by means of 
tar. 

3. When, by the above means, the compres- 
sion, and consequent inflammation of the sen- 
sible frog, are removed — apply a solution of 
white ol' blue vitriol, or alum — which, if assist- 
ed by pressure and tar, will render that part 
firm ; and the discharge will cease, when the 
inflammation leaves the sensible frog. 

When the discharge has continued a long 
time, care should be taken not to check it so 
suddenly as to produce inflammation, and swel- 
ling of the legs — and yet, if totally neglected, it 
will, eventually, become a canker— a more dan- 
gerous disease. »See Canker in the foot. 

WIND-GALLS. 

Description. Wind-Galls are spongy and 
flatulent humours, on both sides of the legs, just 
above the pastern joint. 

Causes. They are generally the effect of 
Jiard treatment — strains or bruises of the back 
sinew, &g. 



99 



REMEDIES. 

1. When wind-galls are first discovered, fo- 
ment the parts, twice a day, with a strong de- 
coction of red oak bark, sharp vinegar, and a 
little alum— applied as warm as the hand can 
bear — and bind a woollen cloth, wet with the 
liquid, around the place; as tight as possible 
without giving pain. 

2. If the above application should not suc- 
ceed ; blistering with flies may next be resor- 
ted to. 

WOUNDS. 

Horses are continually subject to wounds of 
various kinds — some of which may be distin- 
guished by the following terms — Incisions^ 
Lacerations, and Punctures. 

INCISIONS. 

Description, An incision is a wound made 
by a keen edge-tool — and by which the skin 
and other parts are separated; without being 
torn or bruised. 

REMEDIES. 

1. If the wound be small, and the situation 
will admit of a bandage, draw the lips of the 
incision together — apply a sticking plaster — 
and bind it on with a roller. 



100 

S. If the divided parts cannot be kept togeth- 
er by the plaster and bandage alone — or if the 
wound be large, or so situated as not to admit 
of binding — the lips of it must be drawn into 
contact by a few long stitches, with strong wax- 
ed thread — and a bandage applied, if practica- 
ble* 

3. If an artery should be divided, and cause 
much bleeding ; it must be taken up with a 
crooked needle, and tied with a thread. But 
if the bleeding vessel cannot be secured in this 
way, apply a small quantity of flour to the 
mouth of it — taking care to confine it there, by 
a proper compress, until a scab is formed — and 
after the lips of the wound are brought together, 
as above directed, cover it with rags, dipped in 
spirits of turpentine, or any other spirits — place 
a little lint, lightly, within the edges of it — 
and take care to keep it intirely clean, with 
strong soap-suds; and as free from motion as 
possible. 

4. Whenever a wound becomes much swel- 
led, or inflamed ; or discovers signs of mortifica- 
tion — frequent bleeding, and the application of 
a red oak poultice, or mush, will have a good 
effect. But if the wound should heal very rapid- 



101 

ly ; and fungus be produced, wasli it with a 
little blue stone water. 
The diet should be bran, oats, or green food. 

LACERATIONS. 

Description. A laceration is a wound made 
by some blunt or rough instrument — by the 
horse's becoming entangled in a gate, fence, &c. 
and using violent exertions to extricate himself 
— or by some other accident that rends the flesh. 

REM EDI KS. 

Remove all dirt, splinters, and other extra- 
neous substances from the wound — draw and 
bind the separated parts as closely together as 
possible, without obstructing the discharge of 
matter, when formed. If the horse should be 
in good condition, and has lost but little blood 
from the wound, a moderate quantity may be 
taken from him. The injured part must be 
cleansed, once a day, or when necessary, with 
warm water ; which, if the wound be deep, may 
be done more effectually by a syringe — and 
bathe, twice a day, with either of the following 
lotions — applied very warm. 

A strong decoction of wormwood, southern- 
wood, chamomile flowers, and bay leaves. 

12 



102 

Or — Spirits, half a pint — alum, one ounce 
— and honey, one gill — mixed well together. 

Or — Copperas, two ounces — and clean water, 
one quart. 

Or — Sugar of lead, a quarter of an ounce — 
and clear water, one quart. 

Or — Wet the sore, once a day, with spirits 
of turpentine. 

The horse's food should be light and cooling. 

PUNCTURES. 

Description. These are wounds to which 
the feet are most liable — and are made by some 
sharp pointed instrument. Sometimes by the 
horse's treading on a nail, thorn, &c.— frequent- 
ly by incautiously driving a nail of the shoe into 
the sensible part of the foot — and sometimes by 
the careless or passionate use of a pitchfork, &c. 

REMEDIES. 

1. Punctures being generally very painful 
wounds, and frequently dangerous, require im- 
mediate and careful attention. First, cleanse 
the injured part from all dirt, sand, &c. with 
warm water — then apply poultices, composed of 
red oak bark, beaten very fine and well boiled, 
and corurmeal, sufficient to form the mass ; until 



103 

healthy matter is discharged. And then use 
either of the remedies prescribed for lacera- 
tions. 

S. When the bottom of the foot is punctured 
by a nail or any other instrument, it will be 
essential, without delay, to enlarge the orifice 
through the horny matter, with a sharp knife — 
then pour in a little tincture of benzoin — and 
when a secretion of healthy matter is produced, 
apply a little tow or lint, dipped in tar, or Ve- 
nice turpentine — and keep the whole foot cool 
by bran poultices. 



104 



AFPISNBIZ. 

Containing Instructions for Breeding, Wean- 
ing , Castrating f Breaking, Docking, Shoe- 
ingf Mounting- Kiding^ Travellings Driving, 
Feeding, Soiling, Watering, Stabling, Trim- 
mings Dressing, Choosing Ostlers, Fatten- 
ing, Bleeding, Purging, Clystering, Blister- 
ing, Poulticing, Mowelling, Preventing in- 
fectious and other diseases, defending from 
Flies, ^c. 

Breeding. A mare should not be suffered to 
breed before she is four years old. The best 
time for her to take the horse* is late in the 
Spring — so that she may not foal, the next sea- 
son, before the grass be sufficiently grown for 
pasture ; which is much better than hay for pro- 
ducing milk. During the time of gestation her 
food should be wholesome and plentiful — her 
exercise moderate and frequent — and, in Au- 
tumn and winter, care must be taken to protect 
her from wet and cold, by keeping her in a large 
stable or shed, furnished with a rack and man- 
ger, and liberally supplied with clean litter. 

* Crossing the breeds is said to be of great advantage. 



APPENDIX. 105 

When a mare is made choice of for a regular 
breeder, she may he put to the horse about three 
or four weeks after foaling, annually, during 
eight or ten years. 

Weaning. If a mare should foal in the be- 
ginning of summer, the colt may run with her 
until the beginning of tlie following winter — by 
which time it will acquire the habit of eating 
dry food, as well as grass. When separated, 
they should be kept intirely out of sight and 
hearing of each other, several mouths. The colt 
must be kept in a convenient house, with a low 
rack and manger, for hay and oats — the hay 
must be very fine and sweet — and a little wheat 
bran should be mixed with the oats, in order to 
keep the body open, and excite an appetite. In 
the Spring it must be turned out to pasture, 
where the grass is short and sweet ; and Avhere 
i there is good water, to diink at pleasure. The 
I next winter, the comfort and cleanliness of the 
young animal ought not to be neglected. 

After the first year, male and female colts 
should not be kept together. 

Castrating. Castrating a horse is taking 
away his testicles — an operation much easier 
performed, and attended with less danger, on a 



106 APPENDIX. 

colt, or young horse, than an old one. He must 
first be thrown on his back, on some soft ground, 
and his feet made perfectly secure — the operator 
is then, with a proper instrument, to cut open 
the scrotum on each side of the seam ; and, pre- 
vious to removing tlie testicles, a waxed thread 
should be tied round the spermatic strings, to 
prevent too great an effusion of blood — when 
this is done, the testicles must be removed with 
a very sharp knife — and pledgits of tow, dipped 
in melted basilicon, with the addition of a little 
spirits of wine, should be applied to the wounds, 
secured by a compress and a proper bandage. 

The best season for the operation is in the 
Spring, when the weather is temperate. 

lireahing. When a colt is about two years 
and a half old, he ought to be gently and fre- 
quently handled, by a person well skilled in the 
management of horses — he should first be taught 
the use of the bridle — afterward, the saddle — 
and, finally, the harness. All which will re- 
quire great patience and perseverance — with a 
continual consideration that, though a horse is 
not furnished with the faculty of reason, yet he 
is endued with a capacity to distinguish between 
kindness and cruelty — and is liable, especially 



APPENDIX, 107 

when young, to contract the disposition of those 
who have the care of him. See Summary. 

DocJcing. Docking a colt is an operation so 
simple that little skill is required in the perfor- 
mance. A cord must be fastened round his 
upper lip, so as not to affect his breathing — one 
of his fore legs should be held up ; to prevent 
his kicking, or doing any other injury. Then, 
tie a waxed string, very tightly, twice round the 
tail, just above the place where it is to be cut 
off; and secure all the hair intended to be re- 
tained — a large block of wood must be placed 
on his rump, and the tail turned up and laid 
smoothly on the block — then, with a sharp in- 
strument and a mallet, the part may be taken off 
at once. Apply a little fine rosin to the wound, 
and sear it with a smooth piece of iron, made 
moderately hot. Two or three days afterward, 
the string must be taken off, and the place 
anointed with sweet oil or fresh butter. 

Or — If the animal has been properly inured 
to the bridle, the operation may be performed 
with very little trouble. Let some person hold 
liim with his buttocks close to a strong and open 
fence — then, having provided a suitable block, 
Bind of sufficient length to rest on the ground, 






108 APPENDIX. 

draw the tail, gently, through or over the fence, 
and proceed with the husiness as before directed. 

Slioein^. Shoeing is an operation of very 
great importance ; and should alwa^'s be per- 
formed by a person of good judgment or prac- 
tical experience. Many horse's feet have been 
greatly injured, if not intirely ruined, by igno- 
rant or obstinate persons. 

In preparing the foot for shoeing, the cruel 
practice of burning it with a red hot shoe must 
never be permitted — but the hoof should be 
neatly pared away, with a butteris, to an evenli 
surface — and a small opening made between the 
bar and crust, to prevent the shoe from pressing; 
on that part, and producing corns — taking par- ■ 
ticular care not to injure their connexion, which i 
is to afford a support for the heel of the shoe, , 
and must be made perfectly level with the other: 
parts of the hoof, with a rasp. The frog, whenji 
in a healthy state, should never be trimmed ; 
except to remove, with great caution, such rough 
and uneven parts as may collect and retain any 
gravel or dirt. For, when frequently pared away,, 
its elasticity is destroyed — the foot becomes con-' 
tracted — and a thrush is generally the conse- 
quence. See Hoqf-hoimd, and Thrush, 



APPENDIX. 109 

When the sole is full, or convex, the shoe 
should be no wider than the crust — and a nar- 
row one is now recommended, as the best kind, 
for general use. It ought to be made of very 
good iron — and exactly the form and size of the 
foot for which it is designed, after being prop- 
erly prepared. The nails, which should also 
be made of the best iron, must be regularly 
driven in, and well clenched — not so high as to 
touch the sensible part of the foot ; yet so as to 
have sufficient hold to coniine the shoe for seve- 
ral months. Shoes for draft-horses, that seldom 
go out of a walk, should be heavy, strong, have 
high heels, and be pointed at the toes with steel. 

When a horse is well shod, if water be poured 
on the bottom of his foot, it will not pass between 
the hoof and shoe. 

Mounting. Previous to mounting a horse, 
examine the bridle, saddle, and their various 
appendages ; and see that every thing is in good 
order, and where it ought to be. And he should 
be accustomed to stand firmly and motionless, 
until his rider be fairly seated, and his clothes 
properly adjusted. 

Riding, When the rider is mounted, and 

ready to go, he should give his horee an intima- 
K 



110 APPENDIX. 

tion of it by a pressure with liis knees, or by- 
some gentle expression ; which he may soon be 
taught to understand, without resorting to the 
cruel use of whip or spur — wliicli ought ncveri 
to be used, except in cases of absolute ueces- 
sity ; and even then, with reason and humanity. 

The rider should continually guard against 
every unnatural and unnecessary motion of his; 
body — and carefully avoid the odious practice 
of jerking his horse's mouth with the bridle- 
mechanically bruising his sides, at every stepl 
with a pair of unconscious heels — and tossinaj 
his arms and legs about, like a person afflictetMi 
with St. Vitus's Dance. I 

A horse will travel with ranch more ease, 
both to himself and his rider, when governed 
by a gentle and steady hand. See Nummary, 

Travelling. To perform a long journey, witJi 
ease and comfort to a horse, and satisfaction tc 
bis rider, will require some attention to his feed- 
ing, during eight or ten days previous to setting 
out. 

A horse uncommonly fat, running late at 
grassj, fed with unsubstantial food, or unaccus- 
tomed to exercise, is very unfit to endure the 
fatigue of a journey; unless prepared by being 



APPENDIX. Ill 

fed, a week or t^n days, on corn or oats, and 
good hay ; and giving liini moderate exercise 
every day. And it will be necessary to have 
liini shod with a good set of shoes — taking care 
that they fit easily ; and are so placed as not to 
cut the legs, or contract the feet. Examine the 
saddle, or harness (as the mode of travelling 
Intended may be) and see that they fit properly; 
and so as not to pinch the horse, or injure any 
part of him by friction or too great pressure. 

In the evening previous to commencing the 
journey, after the horse is furnished with a good 
bed of straw, and is well rubbed, give him four 
quarts of old corn, or eight quarts of clean oats, 
and a sufficient quantity of good liay. In the 
morning, feed him with four quarts of oats, or 
bvo quarts of corn ; and afterward oifer him a 
bucket of water. 

Being now prepared for the journey, the fol- 
lowing directions must be strictly observed. — 
Never permit the horse, while travelling, to 
|!lrink very cold water, much more than suffi- 
cient to wet his mouth and throat. Before feed- 
ing, which should be done once in about four 
hours, during the day, let him stand ten mi- 
iiutes to get cool — olTer him a bucket of water, 
ivith a little salt and two handfuls of corn meal 



lis APPENDIX. 

stirred in it — feed him with four quarts of oats, 
or half that quantity of dry corn, and a little 
hay — and offer him water again, prepared as 
before. At night, let him be turned into a lot, 
if convenient, for the purpose of rolling, and 
cooling himself — and after removing all the 
dirt trom his legs with soap-suds, have him put I 
into a stable, well supplied with clean litter- 
then take any kind of spirits and vinegar, off! 
each, half a pint — mix them together, and rub 
his legs with the mixture, until they are dry. 
Let him be well curried, brushed, and rubbed 
with straw — give him plenty of water — and feed 
him with four quarts of corn, or twice the quan- 
tity of oats, and a sufficiency of hay. Have 



dung, to keep his hoofs tough and cool. Next 
morning, give him four quarts of oats or two 
quarts of corn, and as much water as he will 
drink. And thus proceed, daily, to the end of i 
the journey. 

Change the horse's food as frequently as 
possible, without giving him grain or hay just 
gathered ; which would be very injurious to him. 

His shoes should be daily inspected, and 
kept in good order — his back, and other parts 
liable to injuries by the saddle or liarness 



APPENDIX. 113 

ought to be carefully examined every evening 
— ^and if chafed or scalded, the part must be 
cleansed with weak soap-suds ; and, afterward, 
bathed with a little water and salt. See Saddle 
Galls and Summary. 

Driving. I am aware that many who have 
the care of horses duly appreciate their worth ; 
and treat them with propriety — but a great 
proportion of tliose noble, generous and useful 
animals, are annually doomed to diseases and 
death, by the savage conduct of their drivers ! 

*^ A righteous man regardetii the life of his 
beast'' — but, surely, that man must be unright- 
eouSf and callous to every feeling of humanity, 
who, from motives of either interest or vanity, 
can deliberately impose a burden on bis horse 
which he is unable to sustain — and then beat 
him, with the fury of a deraoniaek, for not per- 
forming a task which is utterly impossible. 

And, for the sake of humanity, and the in- 
terest of those who have horses. I would res- 
pectfully recommend, that they be very careful 
not to intrust them to the management of boys, 
or others, who are subject to violent paroxysms 

of anger ; and appear to be destitute of either 
K2 



1 14 APPENDIX. 

judgment or mercy, in their ordinary transac- 
tions. 

A judicious and humane driver has no need 
of written rules and directions, for the regula- 
tion of his conduct — but there may be others to 
whom a few hints may be useful. 

When horses are harnessed* for the pur- 
pose of performing any particular service ; great 
care should be observed to adapt their burden 
to their strength — the condition of the road — 
distance they have to travel — and the state of 
the weather. They should never be hurried 
when ascending a hill ; nor be allowed to exceed 
a walk when descending one. Watering fre- 
quently, and feeding seasonably and sufficient- 
ly, must not be neglected. And let the carriage- 
wheels be well supplied with grease. 

Feeding. I suppose it to be generally known 
tliat some liorses recjuire more food than others, 
of the same size and in similar circumstances — 
that any horsemustbebetterfeed when employed, 
than when idle— and that all of them should be 
supplied witi) a sufficient quantity of sweet and 
wholesome provision, to keep them in good con- 
dition. 

♦Harness ouglit always to fit the horse that wears it ; and be 
kept clejtn, soft and pliable ; to prevent it from galling-. 



APPENDIX. 115 

Let their meals be moderate and frequent — 
and when on a jourr.ey, their food must be light 
and sparing, during the day, but plentiful in the 
evening — always allowing them time to get cool, 
previously to being fed. 

No person should keep more horses in his 
possession than can be profitably and reputably 
supported. How frequently do we see fearful 
signs of famine exhibited to view, by indigent or 
penurious proprietors of miserable skeletons, 
moving to and fro ; with ribs almost as naked as 
the rundles of the rack from which they should 
derive a portion of their sustenance. 1 appre- 
hend it w ould much better comport with human- 
ity to despatch such objects of commiseration, 
without loss of time, than suffer them to languish 
to death, for want of the necessaries of life. See 
Summary. 

Soiling. Soiling is recommended, by men 
of experience, as the best and most economical 
mode of feeding horses with grass, during Ihe 
ummer season. That is, to cut it, when suffi- 
dently grown, and convey it to their racks ; in- 
stead of permitting them to run over it as they 
please ; by which they destroy much more than 
ihey eat ; and unavoidably waste the principal 
part of their manure. 



116 APPENDIX. 

Watering. When a horse is at liberty, and 
has free access to water, he will take care of 
himself — but when under restraint, of any kind, 
his owner should not fail to see his wants sup- 
plied in due season. 

It would be absurd to offer any definitive or 
positive rule for watering a horse — an attention 
to his constitution, situation, and otiier circum- 
stances, must alwajs regulate the conduct of the 
person who has the immediate care of him. 

Thirst is generally excited, and increased, by 
constantly feeding on dry and strong food — by 
excessive labour, and severe travelling — by pro- 
fuse perspiration, &c. when frequent watering, 
in moderate quantities, should never be neglec-; 
ted — taking care not to suffer him to drink while) 
very warm ; and always avoid very cold watetf 
as much as possible. 

If ploughmen would give a little water to 
their horses, once every two hours, during the 
time of labour, allowing them a few minutes to 
get cool bet >re drinking, 1 believe it would have 
a salutary effect. 

Stahling. A stable should be built in a dry i 
and airy situation — the f oor inade <^f plardc, and \ 
a little descending from the manger, backwards; 



APPENDIX. 117 

to drain off the urine, &c. — the ceiling high, and 
weli ventilated ; to let the noxious air in the sta- 
ble escape — and the door wide and high ; to 
prevent the horse from hurting his head and 
hips. 

It should be furnished with a number of win- 
dows to be opened or shut at pleasure; for the 
purpose of admitting air in warm weather, and 
repelling cold and storms in the winter season. 
There ought to be one glass window fronting 
each horse; that he may not be continually 
kept in total darkness. And every one should 
have a stall to himself; made sufficiently large 
for him to turn round with ease — the partitions 
so long and high as to prevent any communica- 
tion with his neighbours ; and so near the floor 
as to hinder him from getting his feet under it, 
when lying down. 

The rack and manger must be composed of 
hard and smooth wood — and both placed in 
such a manner as to render it easy for the horse 
to procure his food. The rack should stand 
perpendicularly, two or three feet from the wall; 
and boards extended, obliquely, from the wall 
to the bottom of the rack — the hay will then set- 
tle without sifting any dirt into the horse's eyes. 

The halter should never be tied to the rack, 



118 APPKNDIX. 

but pass through a ring in the manger ; with a 
smooth piece of wood, weighing about a pound, 
fastened to the end of it. 

No hogsty or putrid substance should be 
placed near the stable — and that ought to be 
cleaned every morning ; and supplied with fresh 
litter every evening. 

When horses are constantly confined in the 
jstable, on a plank floor, their hoofs become very 
dry and brittle ; they should, therefore, be al- 
lowed the liherty of standing on damp and soft 
ground, w iienever convenient. See Summary, 

Trimming. When the mane and tail of a 
borse are w ell proportioned to his body, they 
greatly add (o his beauty. 

Previously to trimming the tail, the form and ? 
size of the body must be particularly attended 
io — that a due proportion may be preserved. 

The mane of a horse should reach about half | 
way down his neck — and be kept thin and 
smooth by frequent combing. 

Dressing. When horses are kept in the 
stable, they should be dressed, daily, with the 
currycomb and brush, on all those parts that 
are covered with hair — which will increase per- 
spiration through the pores of the skin— pro- 



. 



APPENDIX. ii^ 

mote health and activity — and render them more 
tit for service. In summer, or whenever the 
weather is temperate, tliey should be cleaned in 
the open air — and particularly when just come 
from some exercise or labour, in a state of per- 
spiration — for, if immediately put into a warm 
stable, they frequently perspire so long as to 
suffer by it. See Summary. 

The practice of washing a horse's legs with 
cold water, or plunging him into a river, when 
very warm, ought never to be permitted. 

But, after travelling, or any laborious exer- 
cise, a horse's feet should be entirely freed from 
dirt — his legs may then be washed with water 
a little warm. If tlie hoofs appear to be either 
brittle or contracted, a mixture of cow dung and 
soft clay may be usefully applied to the soles. 

Choosing Ostlers. Notwithstanding the situ- 
ation of an ostler is far from being enviable, 
y«t there are few occupations which require a 
greater variety of virtues and qualifications, 
than that of a person intrusted with the manage- 
ment of horses, at an inn. 

He should be honest, sober, attentive, kind, 
obliging, active, industrious, courageous, prur 
jdent, patient, chearful, &c. 



130 APPENDIX. 

" No situation tliat a servant can be placed 
in, requires more activity, sobriety, strength, 
attention, and industry, than that of an ostler. 
And how often do we see weak, lazy, careless, 
crippled, and even extreme old men, worn out 
■with age and infirmity, placed in that employ- 
ment! Indeed, those are often made choice of 
who are unable to perform labour of any de- 
scription. Nothing can be more agreeable to a 
fatigued traveller, than to place his horse in 
possession of every pleasure, every comfort pos- 
sible, after his having faithfully performed a 
hard ride, or on a journey : which he cannot 
have the opportunity of doing, unless a fit per- 
son is selected for an ostler. 

Many fine horses and stables have been de- 
stroyed by carelessness — ostlers that smoke 
pipes or segars are unfit for that employment." 

[Z>r. Mason.2 

Fattening. For the purpose of fattening a 
lean horse in a short time, plenty of clean, 
sweet corn, oats, bran, and hay must be provi- 
ded — and also, a sufficient quantity of straw, to 
furnish him with a clean and comfortable bed. 

If the animal be very poor, take one quart of 
blood from his neck — if in tolerable condition,, 



APPENDIX. 121 

take two quarts from him — and repeat the ope- 
ration at the expiration of every ten days ; until 
he become fat. Give him a mash of bran, about 
six quarts, scalded with one quart of strong 
flax-seed tea, adding one table spoonful of flour 
of sulphur and one tea spoonful of nitre — re- 
peated every eight days. But he must not be 
suffered to drink during ten hours after each 
mash. 

Take half an ounce of assafoetida — wrap it in 
a clean linen rag — and nail it in the bottom of 
the manger, where the horse is fed. He will 
dislike it at first ; but, in a few days, he will 
become fond of it. His manger should be wash- 
ed with vinegar and salt, twice a week — and 
eare must be taken to remove all dust and sour 
food, previously to feeding. 

His common food must be a mixture of bran 
and oats — bran and corn — or either of them 
alone — and a sufficient quantity of good hay. 
Let him be fed three times a day — change his 
diet very frequently — and when good grass can 
be procured, put a little into his rack, every 
noon, instead of hay. If his mashes were oc- 
casionally moistened with strong sassafras tea, 
it would increase his appetite — enrich his blood 
'—and open his bowels. 



4^S APPENDIX. 

When a horse is very lean, occasioned by 
want and other cruel treatment, great care will 
be necessary to confine him to light food at first ; 
to prevent a founder, or some other injury — but 
as he improves in condition, his mashes may be 
richer, and gradually increased, to almost any 
quantity that he will eat with a good appetite. 

Let him liave water three times a day, imme- 
diately after his meals — dissolving a handful of 
salt in it two or three times a week. A little 
moderate exercise, once a day, and proper rub- 
bing, twice a day, will render his flesh firm and 
solid ; atid be otherwise useful. 

The hoofs should be cleaned out frequently, 
and stuffed with clay and salt, or fresh cow 
dung; to keep the feet cool, and prevent the 
legs from swelling. 

Bleeding. This is frequently a very essential 
operation to bo jierfornied ; for the purpose of 
preventing, mitigating, or removing diseases^ — 
v.diich is simply opening a vein, with a sharp 
fleam or lancet, generally in the neck of a horse. 

Some of the symptoms indicaling the propri- 
ety of bleeding are — unusually full veins — red 
or yellow appearance of the eyes — itching aboutif 
the mane and tail, denoted by the aniraaPs rub» i 
bing them almost continually. 



APPENDIX. 123 

Bleeding is necessary in colds — fevers, of 
nearly every description — violent falls and 
bruises — wounds of the eyes — strains, from 
hard riding or drawing — and all other accidents, 
when there is reason to apprehend a stagnation 
of the blood will take place — or where the 
small vessels may be ruptured, and the blood 
extravasated. 

TliG quantity drawn off may vary from one to 
six quarts ; according to the urgency of the 
case, and strength of the animal. 

But, previous to any attempt to bleed, the 
state of the pulse should be ascertained ; and 
the operation either omitted or regulated accord- 
ingly. 

One of the pulse- veins may be found on the 
inside of the jaw-bone ; and another on the in- 
side of the foreleg, or that part called the arm, 
between the point of the shoulder and the knee. 

The pulsations in a healthy horse are, gene- 
rally, from forty to fifty in a minute. If they 
exceed fifty, there is reason to apprehend a fe- 
ver — the state of which will be indicated by the 
additional number of strokes. 

When a fever is very violent, the pulse will 
frequently strike nearly a hundred times in a 
minute^ and produce a peculiar sensation to the 



124 APPENDIX. 

i 

finger ; as though it were sharply struck by the * 
vibratiun of a cord. 

Bleeding high in the neck is recommended : 
to prevent the part from swelling. When it is 
done for the cure of important inflammatory dis- 
eases, a large orifice should be made in the 
vein, and the blood drawn off in a large stream. 
It must be caught in some vessel, for the purpose 
of judging of its quality, as well as quantity. 
If, after it has coagulated, a light buff coloured 
jelly forms the surface, it is an evidence of the 
inflammatory state of it. Blood drawn from a 
healil-y horse coagulates in a short time ; and 
has tise appearance of a red jelly ; with a small j 
quantity of fluid, resembling water, floating on ^ 
its surface. 

In cases of external and circumscribed in- 
flammatien, opening a vein contiguous to the 
affected part will be useful — for when a disease i 
is occasioned by an undue proportion of blood 
in the vessels of the brain, relief may frequently 
be obtained by opening the artery of the temple. 

Purging. Horses have frequent need of purg- 
ing. But, before a purge is given, some prepa- 
ration is necessary, in order to render the ope- 
ration safe and efficacious. 



APPENDIX. 1S5 

A very fleshy, or full fed horse, should be 
bled, and have his diet lowered during a week — 
several mashes of scalded bran sliould be given, 
to open his bowels, and remove the indurated 
excrement ; which sometimes prevents the regu- 
lar operation of the physic ; and occasions much 
sickness and griping. 

When horses are constantly kept in the sta- 
ble, without the benefit of air or exercise, in 
proportion to their food, they should have a mild 
purge in the Spring of the year — after being 
prepared for it, as before directed. 

It should be remembered, that a horse is ge- 
nerally purged with difficulty — that the physic 
frequently lies twenty. four hours in his bowels 
before it operates — and that the tract it has to 
pass through exceeds thirty yards — consequent- 
ly, resinous and other improper drugs, by their 
violent irritations, often occasion excessive grip- 
ings and cold sweats — shave off* the very mu- 
cous of the gu's — and produce inflammations ; 
which sometimes terminate in mortification and 
death. The first purge given to a horse should 
always be mild. 

A purge should be given in the morning, 

while tiie stomach is empty — and the horse be 

kept warm, and mostly in the stable, until it 
K2 



126 APPENDIX. 

operates. Let him have three mashes of scalded 
bra!! during the day — the first about four hours 
after taking his dose. But if he refuse to eat it 
when warm, give it to him cold or raw. A little 
good hay may be put into his rack, after eating 
each niasli. 

His drink should be plentiful ; and as warm 
as he will take it. Next morning feed and wa- 
ter him in a similar manner — give him a little 
exercise — and, in the evening, he may be fed 
with a mixture of bran and oats. 

PLRCiATiYE BALLS. 

1. Socotoritie aloes, ten drains — jalap and 
salt of tartar, of each, two drams — grated gin- 
ger, one dram — oil of cloves, thirty drops — and 
syrup sufficient to make it into a ball. 

2.. Soeotorine aloes, one ounce — powdered 
rhubarb, half an ounce — grated ginger, one 
dram — made into a ball with syrup of roses. 

3. Soeotorine aloes, ten drams — myrrh, finely 
poVidcred, half an ounce — saffron and fresh 
jala[' in powder, of each, one dram — make them 
into a stiff ball with syrup of roses — and add a 
small spoonful of reetifitd oil of amber. 

Half an ounce of Castile soap may be added 
to any of the above mixtures, for a horse of a 



APPENDIX. 1^7 

gross constiiulion — and the pro})orlioiis of iu- 
gredienls increased for large and strong horses. 
A little Avann water-gruel should be given im- 
mediately after the ball — and bran mashes, as 
above directed. 

The following mixture may be used for a 
purge with intiie safety — and can be made 
stronger, if necessary, by adding one ounce 
more of senna, or two ounces of jalap. 

Take senna, two ounces — iijfuse it in a pint 
of boiling water, two liours — add three drams 
of salt of tartar — pour it off; atid dissolve in it 
four ounces of Glauber's salts, and two or three 
ounces of the cream of tartar. 

This dose is cooling, easy and quiclv in its 
operation — and preferable, in all inflammatory 
cases, to any other purge — as it passes into the 
blood ; and operates by urijie also. 

When a horse loses his appetite after purg- 
ing, it will be necessary to give him a warm 
istomach drink, made of an infusion of chamo- 
Imile flowers, anise-seeds r.ud saffron. 

If the purging continue too long, give one 
ounce of diascordium in one pint of Port wine 
— and repeat the drench ever}^ twelve hours^ 
until the disorder abates. Plenty of the follow- 
ing preparation should also be given — Gum 



128 * APPENDIX. 

arable and tragacanth, of each, four ouuees— = 
juniper berries and caraway seeds, of each, one 
ounce — and bruised cloves, half an ounce — 
gently simmered in one gallon of water, till the 
gums are dissolved. Let the horse have one 
quart at a time, in a pail of water. But if he 
will not take it in that way, give it to him with 
a horn, without the water. 

When the purge does not operate ; but makes 
the horse swell, and refuse his food and water 
(which is sometimes the effect of improper 
drugs, or taking cold) give him the following 
diuretic, warm — and lead him gently about, 
until relief is obtained. 

White wine, one pint — nitre, one ounce — 
and camphire, dissolved in a little rectified spirit 
of wine, one dram — then add oil of juniper, and 
rectified oil of amber, of each, two drams — and 
of honey or syrup of marsh-mallow, four ounces. 

Clystering. As clysters are frequently the 
means of preserving the lives of horses, every 
person who has any of those animals in his pos- 
session, should always have a clyster bag and 
pipe prepared for any emergency. The whole 
apparatus consists of nothing more than a large 
bladder, with the neck cut off — and a pewter 



APPENDIX. 139 

pipe, common reed, or any other smooth tube, 
nine or ten inches long, and about one inch in 
diameter. 

When about to be used, the end of the blad- 
der must be softened with warm water ; and the 
liquid poured through a funnel into it — which 
is then to be securely tied round one end of the 
tube — the other end, being made perfectly 
smooth, rounding, and well oiled, must be intro- 
duced several inches into the anus — and the 
liquid forced through the tube, by pressure with 
the hand. But if the passage should be ob- 
structed by hard dung, it may be removed by a 
very small hand, well greased. 

When a clyster is to be injected, the horse 
must be placed, with his head down hill — and 
if he refuse to stand, fasten a twitch on his 
nose. 

Clysters are of three kinds — opening — ano- 
dyne — and nourishing. 

For the lirst purpose — dissolve three fourths 
of a pound of common salt in one gallon of warm 
water — and add of olive or linseed oil, four or 
five ounces. 

For the second — take solid opium, two drams 
— mix it well with half a pint of water — and add 
one quart of Indian meal or wheat flour gruel. 



130 APPENDIX. 

For tbe third — rich broths — wheat floui 
gruel — and other nourishing fluids, are recom- 
mended ; as being sometimes useful, when the 
throat is so diseased as to prevent swallowing. 

When the operation is performed, the tail 
should be kept close to the fundament a few 
minutes, to prevent a too hasty return of the 
clyster. 

mistering. Previous to the application of a 
blister plaster to any part of a horse, the hair 
should be cut off as closely as possible — the 
blistering ointment must then be regularly spread, 
witii a warm knife, on a peice of strong linen 
or soft leather, sufficiently large for the purpose 
— and applied to (lie place. 

During the operation of the blister, the ani- 
mal must be so confined as to prevent his biting 
(he part, or doing any other injury. 

BLISTER PLASTERS. 

1. Take of Spanish flies, half an ounce — oil 
of turpentine, one ounce — hog's lard, four 
ounces — and mix them well together for use. 
• 2. Mix together tar, four ounces — vitriolic 
acid, two ounces — oil of origanum, half an 
ounce — hog's lard and Spanish flies, of each, 
two ounces. 



AIM'ENDIX. 131 

The last is recommended for spavins. 

Poulticing. Tlie following mixtures will fre- 
quently be found useful, as poultices, when ap- 
plied to wounds, &c. 

1. Take of bran, one quart — sharp vinegar, 
scalding hot, half a pint — hog's lard, one table 
spoonful — and mix them for use. 

2. Take of red oak bark, a sufficient quantity 
to make one quart of strong decoction — and In- 
dian meal, enough to form the poultice. 

ti. Take of sharp vinegar, half a pint — meal, 
one quart — hog's lard, two table spoonfuls — 
and pour a sufficient quantity of boiling water 
on them, to form the mass for use. 

4. Take plenty of lettuce, cabbage, mallow 
leaves, turnip tops and turnips themselves, or 
any of them separately — boil them tender — 
press the water out — and chop them fine, with 
two or three ounces of hog's lard or butter 
added. 

This last is an excellent poultice for bruised 
feet; bound on as hot as the horse can bear it 

-taking care to have them well cleaned before 
it is applied. 



Moivelling. Rowels have been sometimes 
found useful in cases of inward strains about 



I 



J33 APPExNDlX. 

the shoulders or hips — and for hard swellings 
that are not easily dissolved. When apprehen- 
ded necessary to apply one, take either a skein 
of silk, a piece of coarse twine, or a small roll 
of hair — grease it with lard or fresli butter — 
then, three or four inches below the part affec- 
ted, raise the skin with a thumb and finger; 
and, with a needle sufficiently large for the pur- 
pose, draw the cord through, and tie the ends 
together. It must, afterward, be greased daily; 
and drawn backward and forward, to increase 
the discharge of matter. 

"What are called Rowels by the English 
Farriers are made as follows : An incision is 
made through the skin, about three eighths of an 
inch long. Then the skin is separated from 
the flesh with the finger, or with the end of a 
blunt horn, as far as the finger will easily reach. 
Into this a piece of leather, made very thin, 
and round shaped, is introduced, about the size 
of a crown piece, having a large, round hole in 
the middle of it. Previous to introducing the 
leather, it is covered with lint or tow, and dip- 
ped in some digestive ointment. Also a pledgifc 
of tow, dipped in the same ointment, is put in 
the orifice, to keep out the cold air.'' 

[^JVew Kng. Farmer, 



APPENDIX. 133 

Preventing infectious diseases. ^^ x\.s most 
diseases that are infectious, endanger the life of 
a horse, 1 consider it important to every owner 
of those useful animals, to be able to use a medi- 
cine that will act against, or prevent, those dis- 
eases that are contagious. I have been in the 
habit of owning from one to eigiit horses at a 
time, for fifteen years ; and in ail that time never 
lost a horse. I cannot help believing my suc- 
cess, in this respect, has been much indebted to 
the constant use of assafostida; v. hicli 1 consid- 
er one of the most valuable and ianncent medi- 
cines ever used among iiorscs. li not only 
drives off diseases of almost every kind, but it 
keeps up tlie appetite, produces a remarkable 
fineness in the coat of hair, and gives such life 
and spirits, as to induce even an old plough 
liorse to attempt the attitudes and movements of 
the gay and mettled racer. 

" The value of tlie assafcetida is, at present, 
but little known for the use of horses ; but 
whenever it shall have been used, or brought 
into notice, its remarkable effect, no doubt, will 
prove what I now say. Its virtue is acknow- 
ledged, and remembered with pleasure, by all 
jthose who have used it in their stables.'' 

M 



It3-t APPENDIX. 

"When a small piece of assafceti^a has been 
placed in the manger of a horse in health, I 
have known him to stand for months in a stall 
next to one violently diseased, without taking 
the infection, or any ill consequence resulting 
from their contiguous situation." 

* * * *• * 9Jf *- * * ->fc * 4^ ifS- 

"Take of assafoetida, one ounce, divide it 
and wrap each piece in a clean linen rag ; nail 
one in tlie !)ottom of the manger the horse is fed 
in ; the otlser in tiie bottom of the bucket in 
which he is watered. The above quantity will 
last about three months; at the expiration of 
which time it must be replenished. 

" A small piece confined to the !)ridle bit, will 
have the same effect, when he goes from home, 
or enters on a journey.'- [i>/'. Jlason.^ 

An infallible preventitive for nearly all the 
disorders to which horses are liable, may be 
comprised in the few follov,'ing Avords — always 
treat them well. 

Defending from Flies. A certain protection 
from the annoyance of flies would be found in 
the use of rancid fish-oil, of any kind. With a 
sponge, or woollen cloth, rub a small quantity of 
Uie oil completely over the legs, and other parts i 
of a horse, liable to their voracious attacks, an 



1 



APPENDIX. 135 

they will immediately abandon tlieir bloody em- 
ployment. — The oil may be washed oflf, at any 
time, with a little warm soap-suds. 

Foxing f Marking, JSTickingf FricJdng, ^c. 
being attended with more cruelty than real 
utility, have been purposely omitted. 

Summar?j. " House, one of the most useful 
of tame quadrupeds. The marks or evidences 
of a good one are these — a high neck, a full 
breast, a lively eye, a strong back, a stiff dock, 
full buttocks, ribs reaching near to the hips, 
well made hoofs, rather large, and a good gait. 

"The size of a horse should be in proportion 
to the work in which he is chiefly to be employ- 
ed. Small sized ones often prove good in the 
saddle. They are apt to be hardy, and in pro- 
portion to their size, and the quantity of their 
eating, usually are the most profitable. Plough 
horses, and all draught horses, should be large ; 
as their weight is of importance in drawing; 
and as it is often inconvenient to put two horses 
to one plough, especially in horse hoeing. Large- 
ness is also of importance, when they are used 
single, in journeying, as they most usually are, 
in a chaise or sleigh. 

" A horse's manner of going is a matter of no 
small importance. — The ambling gait, or what, 



136 APPENDIX. 

in this country, is vulgarly called pacing, is not 
good ; neither for the horse nor the rider. It is 
tiresome to both. It habituates a horse to carry 
his feet too near to the ground ; so that he is the 
more liable to trip and stumble. 

^' The method so much practised formerly in 
this country, of teaching horses to pace swiftly, 
and racing in that gait, is highly pernicious. It 
puts them to a much greater strain than running; 
and numbers have been thus ruined. Some colts 
naturally amble, and others trot. But all may 
be made to trot, if due care and pains be taken 
with them while they are young; or as soon as 
they are first ridden. In a carriage an amble is 
tiresome to a horse, appears highly improper^ 
and is disgusting to every one. And 1 do not 
see why it should appear at all more tolerable 
in the saddle. 

i( Vv hen any change of gait is wanted for the 
ease of the rider, the canter is to be preferred, 
than whicli none can be more easy. 

'• The way of breaking a young horse that is 
mostly used in this country, is highly absurd, 
hurtful and dangerous. He is mounted and rid- 
den before he has been used to tiic bridle, or to 
bearing any weight on his back. If he will not 
go forward, he is most unmercifully beaten ; by 
which his spirits are broken : and his strength 



API-ENDIX. 437 

impaired. If he rear up, he is pulled back- 
wards ; with the risk of hurtiug both horse and 
man. If lie run and start, as he probably will 
under such management, he flings the rider ; 
perhaps is frightened ; gains his liberty, and is 
encouraged to do just so the next opportunity; 
and the unfortunate rider blesses himself, as he 
has reason to do, if he escape without broken 
limbs. Or if the horse should chance to go 
kindly, the rider continues the exercise till the 
horse is fatigued, discouraged, and injured. 

" Instead of tliis mad management, the way 
practised in the older countries should be adopt- 
ed. Let a iiorse first of all be tamed with the 
bridle, by leading him again and again ; in the 
first place, after, or by the side of another horse; 
and after he walks well, bring him to trot after 
his leader. In the next place, put on the sad- 
dle, and lead him in that, time after time. Then 
lay a small weight on the saddle, and if he be 
apt to start, fasten it, that it may not be flung 
oft*; increasing the weight from time to time, 
till he learns to carry what is equal to a man's 
weight. Lastly, let a man gently mount him, 
while another holds iiim by the bridle, and fix 
himself firmly in the saddle. The place of 
riding is recommended to be a ploughed field. 

Let him thus be ridden with a horse going be- 

M3 



i38 Al'PENDlX. 

fore him, till he learn the use of the hit ; and 
will stop, or go forward, at tlie pleasure of the 
rider : and without the application of much 
force. Being exercised in this manner a few 
limes, and treated witli all possible gentleness, 
there will be no more occasion for leading him. 
He will go well of himself; and be thoroughly 
broken, without so much as giving him one blow, 
and without danger or fiitigne, to the horse or 
his rider. And, wMiat is much to be regarded, 
the horse's spirits will be preserved, though he 
be sufficiently tamed. In teaching a horse to 
draw, gentleness must be used. He should be 
tried first in company with other horses ; whe- 
ther in carting or ploughing; and the draught 
should not be so heavy as to fret him, or put 
him to great exertion, till he has learned to draw 
steadily. After this he may be put to draw 
light loads by himself. Lastly, he may be put 
to a pleasure carriage : but coupled with ano- 
ther, rather than alone ; and to a sleigh rather 
than a chaise. It may be taken for a general 
rule, that the gait which is easiest to a horse, 
will be the easiest to his rider. For jaded hor- 
ses, it has always been observed, are apt to go 
hard ; and to tire their riders. The feeding of 
horses, as I conceive, has not been sufficiently 
attended to in this country ; which is. doubt 



APPENDIX. I3t) 

less, one reason why they are in general so 
mean and despicable. Too many keep horses 
who cannot well aflx)rd to feed them. They 
should neither run upon the roads and com- 
mons, nor in pastures that are filled with wild 
and water grasses. They love a dry pasture, 
not too much shaded ; and short grasses of the 
best kinds. Clover and white honey-suckle, 
both green and dry, is excellent food for them. 
It nourishes them well ; and prevents costive- 
ness ; which is very hurtful to them. The best 
clover hay will keep them as well as most other 
kinds of hay with oats. 

" To fit a horse for a journey he should not bo 
suftered to grow too fat and gross. He should 
for some time be kept in the stable rather than 
in the pasture ; and fed mostly with hay and 
provender : but rather sparingly if he incline to 
be fat. He should have exercise, daily, to 
harden his flesh, and keep him in the habit of 
travelling. He should be s!»od some days be- 
fore he begins a journey, that the shoes may be 
well settled to his feet, and the nails a little 
rusted at the points, that they may hold the 
faster. And the pads of the saddle should be 
well fitted to his back, so as to fill the hollows, 
and bear equally on every part. And while he 
is on the journey, he should be stabled every 



110 APPENDIX. 

niglit. It is destructive to expose a horse to the 
dampness and cold of the night, after severe 
exercise. But it would be best, if neither hor- 
ses, nor any of our cattle, were wholly confined 
to dry meat in winter. Horses indicate this, by 
their eating snow with their hay. Set a basket 
of snow within reach of a horse, when he is at 
his manger, and he will take a mouthful from 
eacli alternately. Of all juicy food for horses 
in winter, writers on husbandry seem to give 
carrots the preference. They have been found 
by experience to answer well, instead of oats, 
for labouring horses ; and to fatten those which 
aie lean. 

" He that would be sure to keep his horse in 
good order, must beware whom he suffers to ride 
him ; and must see that he is never abused. 
Profuse sweating should always be avoided. 
And when ahorse is much warmed by exercise, 
he should not be exposed to cold air, or night 
dew; and much less to rain and snow. If he 
cannot be instantly rubbed down and housed 
when warm, he should be covered with a blan- 
ket ; and he should always have a dry stable, 
and be well littered. The neglect of these pre- 
cautions may bring on incurable disorders. 

^' Horses should not be too much deprived of 
the liberty of motion, as they too often are= 



APPENDIX. 141 

Close confinement after hard labour, will be apt 
to abate their circulations too suddenly ; make 
them chilly ; and stiffen their joints. To be de- 
prived of motion, is bad lor man and beast. 
Horses, therefore, should not be straitened for 
room in their stables. Htables should not be so 
low as to prevent their tossing up theii- heads 
as high as they please. Some stables liave so 
little room over head as to bring horses into a 
habit of carrying their heads too low. 'l^hey 
become afraid to lift them up. They should 
also have room in their stables to turn their 
heads to any part of their bodies, that tiiey may 
defend themselves from the biting of insects, 
allay itching, &c. And their halters should al- 
ways be so long, and their stable so wide, that 
they may lie down conveniently. Nor should 
horses be so placed as to be able to deprive each 
other of his fodder. 

*' When horses are kept in stables, as they 
generally are in the coldest half of the year, 
they should be daily dressed, as it is called. 
The curry comb, and the brush, should be well 
used on all parts of their skin which are covered 
with hair. This increases perspiration through 
the pores of the skin, which is necessary for 
health : and causes the blood to move faster in 
the veins. This treatment will not only cause 



143 APPENDIX. 

them to look better, but they will have bettei' 
health, and more activity and courage. They 
will digest their food better ; and be belter for 
service. But if rubbing and friction be wholly 
neglected, or slightly performed, the hair will 
appear dry and rough ; the perspirable matter 
hardens in the pores of the skin, or remains 
lodged at tlie roots of the hair, and has the ap- 
pearance of a dirty white dust ; and sometimes 
like small scales, attended with itching. More 
especially is rubbing necessary for horses, when 
they are growing cold, after being sweated by 
labour. In such cases it should never be omitted. 
'^ Columella observes * that the bodies of cattle 
ought to be rubbed down daily, as well as the 
bodies of men ;' and says * it often does them 
more good to have their backs well rubbed down, 
than their bellies well filled with provender.' 

^^ But in warm weather it would be best for 
them, that they should not have the confinenwot 
of the halter; nor even of the stable. A small 
spot of feeding gi'ound, if it were only a few 
rods, adjoining to the stable, and the door left 
open, that a horse may go in and out, alter- 
nately, as he pleases, would greatly conduce to 
the health of the animal. 

*' This degree of liberty will be most needful 
when the flies are troublesome; and be better for 



APPENDIX. 443 

him tban coufineraent to a stable that is perfectly 
dark. In fly time it gives a horse much ease 
and comfort to smear his limbs, neck and head, 
with rancid fish oil, or something else that will 
keep the flies from attacking him. And, in all 
seasons, when horses have been heated with 
exercise, they should be well rubbed or curried. 

'^ When a horse runs in a pasture, during the 
grass season, he should have some shelter ; not 
ony a shade to defend him from the intense 
h«t of the sun, but a shed, or a clump of trees ; 
tlftt he may retreat from the inclemencies of the 
ai?i3osphere. 

^But horses that are daily worked, in summer, 
slould be mostly kept upon green fodder in 
stibles, rather than grazed in pastures. The 
teidauce of them will not be so burdensome, 
wth a spot of high and thick grass at hand, as 
lading them to and from a pasture, at the dis- 
tnce of a quarter of a mile. This will prevent 
tieir being often chilled by feeding in wet nights. 
1 large quantity of manure will thus be saved. 
i.nd a very small quantity of land will answer, 
h comparison with what it takes for the pastur- 
ng of a horse. Keeping a sithe and a basket 
it hand, a horse may be foddered in this way, 
n two or three minutes ; and by the time that 
he whole spot has been once mowed over, that 



144 APPENDIX. 

which is first cut will be grown up again. 
Where a number of horses are soiled, a pair of 
poles, or a hand cart, will be better than a bas- 
ket, to carry the grass to them. The practice, 
called soiling, answers well near to cities and 
large towns, where lands for pasturage are not 
plenty ; and where, by means of the plenty of; 
manure, lands may be made to yield the great- 
est crops of grass. For very thick grass should 
not be fed off; because the greater part «f it 
will be wasted by the trampling, and the exere- 
ments of animals. 

" When grain is given to horses, it is an eco- 
nomical practice to have it either grount or 
boiled. When horses are soiled, or fed ii a 
stable on green grass, it should be cut and (ar- 
ried in during the morning, while the dew ism. 

^' A disorder, called Ptyalism, has, for sone 
years past, been gaining ground among horss, 
in various parts of the United States ; whichis 
an excessive v;atering or slavering at the mouh. 
Various causes have been assigned for the ds- 
order ; but none of them satisfactory. Soiliig 
them is, however, a certain remedy .^^ 

[JVekJ England Farmer. 



THE END. 



'^'^. 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



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